The Grand Duke's Soulmate
Chapter 491: Brought To The Royal Court

Chapter 491: Brought To The Royal Court

[Meanwhile, at the palace...]

As the new day dawned, the royal court members gathered in the hall where the first trial was poised to commence.

King Kyden, as usual, started his day with morning prayers before proceeding with his schedule. Though the situation was hectic, his demeanour remained calm and composed.

Anyone who looked at him might have thought the king was unaffected by the unfolding events, but inside, his heart raged like a storm.

Even now, he pondered the best way to navigate the situation carefully, seeking a win-win solution. He might need to employ tricks and strategies to ensure Anna’s safety while maintaining support from the nobles and keeping order.

The princess’s offence was indeed serious, but as she had stated the other day, what she possessed was crucial for the kingdom’s safety. The king had to be prepared for any eventuality of the disease reoccurring, and the well-being of his people was of utmost importance.

There would be no kingdom to rule if the populace perished from a plague. While Anna’s blood might not suffice for all, it could create a barrier to prevent the disease’s spread, allowing proper isolation for the affected.

This thought had occupied the king’s mind all night. Like it or not, he needed her to stay alive as a guarantee for the most effective remedy should the disease strike again.

King Kyden flatly rejected Queen Emelda’s plea to join the royal court. He understood the situation would grow ugly, and knowing the queen’s love for Anna, he wished to spare her the pain of despair.

Despite this, he promised her that whatever happened, he would ensure the princess would not face punishment that could lead to her death or harm the innocent child.

As soon as King Kyden entered the royal court, he was greeted by the ministers and nobles. The king then took his seat on the dais. The offenders were not yet present, as it was customary for the king to summon them first.

King Kyden’s gaze fell upon the attendees. Looking smug and prepared for his ’battle, Lord James sat proudly in his place, accompanied by his daughter, Sarah, and other fellow ministers, primarily his supporters.

As the king’s blue eyes scanned the hall, he noticed an empty spot among the royal court members and realised a missing figure.

He opened his mouth and swiftly asked, "Where is Lord Grey? Wasn’t he informed of today’s agenda?"

Charles, the chamberlain, stepped forward and responded, "His Lordship was not at his residence last night, Your Majesty. The servants were unaware of his whereabouts, so we failed to deliver the message."

"Your Majesty, we shouldn’t delay this matter because of one minister’s absence since this is a crucial issue," Lord James said as he rose from his seat.

"I never said I would adjourn the trial," King Kyden replied nonchalantly.

The minister’s lips curled up on one side, but he maintained his calm demeanour. "Also, about yesterday—"

"I thought we had already cleared that up," the king interrupted, not allowing Lord James to continue. He knew well what the minister wished to discuss.

"But Lady Raychard has escaped. Therefore—"

"I heard what the grand duke demanded from you yesterday, and I’m sure you also understood it. If you wish to proceed with the punishment for her escape, we must first address the person who failed to keep her confined. What say you? Should we or should we not?"

The king’s abrupt question challenged Lord James, simmering his anger beneath the surface. It was common knowledge that those who failed in their duty to guard a captive should face triple the consequences of the offender.

"My daughter, Lady Sarah James, is Her Majesty the Queen’s right-hand person. She rarely makes mistakes."

"Then I suppose we should forget about it. As you said, she is one of my queen’s important officers, so I should extend her my favour. But of course, to let her off, I must allow the same for Lady Anna Raychard. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be fair. Lady Raychard will be punished based on her offence. What difference would it make? Isn’t that so, Lord James? Or does anyone else have a different opinion?" the king asked, gazing at the others.

Lord James bit his lower lip, his face darkening as he caught the hushed whispers from his supporters behind him. He had advocated for this punishment at Sarah’s urging, who had ranted about her resentment all night long.

However, he realised he had no grounds to push for it further if he wanted to protect his daughter, so in the end, he resigned himself to silence.

"Since I hear no objections, let’s move on to the most important matter," said King Kyden.

"What is your order, Your Majesty?" another minister asked impatiently. "Should we discuss the accusations and present all the evidence first, or interrogate the offenders?"

He was one of Lord James’s men, eager to make a good impression in the hope of personal gain.

"We’ll do both," the king decided. "Bring in the offenders."

"Yes, Your Majesty!" the minister responded eagerly.

"Wait!"

King Kyden raised a hand before the minister could move, gaining his attention and that of the attendees.

"I want Lady Anna Raychard to be brought here by Admiral James, the Commander of the Knights of Neblim himself. Also, the Knights of Gerhard who escorted the lady must be present," ordered the king.

"Your Majesty," Charles interjected, bowing slightly. "Sir Elijah Henderson is currently not at the palace. As you ordered, he returned to Gerhard’s mansion to attend to the guests brought back by His Royal Highness the Grand Duke of Gerhard. If you wish for him to attend this trial, I shall send the royal guards to inform him immediately."

"No need. Let him fulfil his task. The rest of the Knights of Gerhard are all here, aren’t they?" King Kyden asked again.

"All of them, along with Mr Rafe Amares, are here except for Sir Alexander Jarr. He left the palace with Lord Grey yesterday," the chamberlain responded.

King Kyden nodded slowly, the slight dimness in his eyes fading as he braced himself to face the situation.

"Let those who are already here come forward. There is no need to wait for one missing knight and minister. Also, bring in the Healer of Gerhard," said the king, determination in his eyes.

"What about His Royal Highness the Grand Duke? Should he attend this trial?" Charles asked.

King Kyden pondered momentarily as the crowd’s eyes fell upon him, waiting for his decision.

"I shall not force him to come. He has already known about this trial since yesterday. Let him make his own decision," the king concluded.

"Noted, Your Majesty," Charles responded. "I shall relay the message swiftly."

The chamberlain bowed and retreated to carry out his duty.

Soon, the main door of the royal court opened, and Kiev, handcuffed and chained, was escorted in by the royal guards.

It didn’t take long for another group to follow, consisting of Anna, bound with a rope and escorted by Adam, accompanied by the Knights and Healer of Gerhard.

Seated among the attendees, Sarah hid her smile behind her small fan. Her frustration over being unable to implicate Anna in the escape punishment was extinguished by the long-awaited moment she had anticipated—to get rid of the concubine and take vengeance on those who had disrespected her. As she had vowed, Kyren belonged to her, so she would subdue them all and make him hers.

***

[A few moments before...]

"Still no sign of him?" Eric’s question heightened the tension as he received negative gestures from the knights.

The second-in-command knight sighed heavily.

"Where could he be?" he pondered anxiously. "Lady Jarr said he went to obtain proof of our lady’s innocence, but he hasn’t returned till now. It’s been days since I last saw him."

"Ayden is meticulous and sharp. He wouldn’t just vanish without an explanation. There must be a reason for his absence," Rafe defended his assistant.

The dead end of their predicament left them hoping for a miracle, one of which was the proof Ayden was supposed to bring. But until now, not even a silhouette of the assistant healer had appeared, and his whereabouts remained unknown.

The trial of Anna and Kiev would begin at any moment. Noah and Drystan had returned long ago after being dismissed by the grand duke, and there was no word from him since then.

On the other hand, Adam had left the chamber after a lengthy discussion with Eric. Knowing the incident between Anna and Kyren, the admiral was concerned for her safety. Still, the second-in-command knight assured him he would take charge of her security and protection.

Time ticked by with increasing anxiety.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the chamber door. When it opened, Charles and Adam stood at the threshold, escorted by the Knights of Neblim.

"The royal court has convened, and His Majesty King Kyden has summoned Lady Anna Raychard to the hall," Adam announced. "He ordered me to escort her personally. Please allow me to carry out my duty, Sir Eric Navin."

His voice and expression were solemn. The knights exchanged glances, their eyes finally settling on Eric. The second-in-command knight knew this moment would come, and there was no way he could stop it.

"Please do so. However, treat our lady with compassion until she is proven guilty," Eric pleaded with the admiral.

"I will," Adam nodded.

"His Majesty also ordered all the Knights of Gerhard and Mr. Rafe Amares, the Healer of Gerhard, to attend as well, except for Sir Elijah Henderson, who is tasked with attending to His Royal Highness the Grand Duke’s guests," Charles added. "Therefore, your attendance is compulsory."

"We will follow you accordingly. Also, please note that Sir Jarr is not here at the moment," the second-in-command knight mentioned.

"His Majesty is aware of his absence. He may join us later upon arrival," the chamberlain noted.

Eric nodded in acknowledgement.

"In that sense, please excuse me," Adam requested.

The second-in-command knight stepped aside, permitting the admiral to advance toward the bedroom while his men waited outside the chamber.

The atmosphere grew sombre with each step he took, as if Anna were already facing her sentence. Though it was a direct order from the king, the admiral did not employ any violence in his approach. He gently knocked and requested permission to enter, like a true gentleman.

Moments later, cries echoed from the open bedroom. Bound with rope, Anna was carefully escorted by Adam and led out.

Callis, Jessy, and Helen followed. The Mederian Princess was already crying relentlessly while the nanny and governess sobbed, struggling to contain their despair.

"Please! Don’t take her! Anna is innocent! You shouldn’t treat her like this!" Callis pleaded, clutching Anna’s arm to prevent her from taking a step further.

"Callis, don’t!" Rafe rushed to her side and pulled her away. "Don’t make it difficult for Admiral James. He’s just doing his duty!"

"But this is wrong, Rafe! So wrong!" she cried.

Guilt painted the admiral’s face, as well as that of the knights watching the scene. It tore at their hearts to see the lady they adored and respected tied up like a criminal.

"It’s all right, Callis! Please don’t cry! Admiral James has no intention to hurt me. He’s a kind person," Anna reassured her.

Turning to Adam, the princess’s expression was calm and composed. She was ready to face the trial and fight for her freedom, despite lacking any proof to claim her innocence.

A question lingered in her mind.

"Do you still believe me, Admiral James? Even after knowing everything?" she asked.

His reply wouldn’t change anything, but she still wanted to hear his response. He had sincerely expressed his belief in her back at the old safehouse.

"I do. My heart tells me so, and I don’t waver in my resolve. However, my position requires me to submit to His Majesty, the King and not interfere with the trial. So, from here on, please don’t take my actions to heart. I sincerely wish for your safety and well-being, Lady Raychard, and that you can prove yourself as you desire," he replied.

Anna nodded, feeling a sense of ease.

"Thank you. That means a lot to me. I will never forget your support. Let’s go."

"Let me come with you! I can’t bear to see you like this without any defence! Those people will only torment you once you’re inside the hall," Callis begged.

"No, Callis! I should face this. Having you around won’t make much difference," Anna insisted.

"But..."

"She’s right. Furthermore, you are not summoned. So, you, Jessy, and Miss Reed should stay here," Rafe said, persuading his wife.

"What about you and the knights?" Callis asked.

"We are all called for the trial. I promise you, we will not allow any cruelty to be done to Lady Raychard or His Highness Prince Kiev until His Majesty renders his judgment," Eric assured her.

The Mederian princess looked down, devastated. She knew she was in no position to fight against this. If only she could reveal to them what she knew.

Jessy came over and hugged her, trying to comfort her heavy heart.

"Miss Reed, please stay and support Mrs Amares while we are gone, will you?" the second-in-command knight requested, concerned by the sadness displayed by the healer’s wife.

"I will, Sir Navin," Helen replied, bowing, tears glistening in her eyes.

"We’d better make a move now. His Majesty is waiting," Charles reminded them.

"Of course," Eric responded, nodding.

Rafe hugged Callis, kissing her forehead to calm her before leaving.

The group then walked out of the chamber, joined by the Knights of Neblim waiting outside, and walked down the hallway while Callis, Jessy, and Helen watched in tears from behind.

As they traversed the path, Garin whispered to Eric, "What about His Highness? Will he not come? You spoke with him."

Eric’s expression shifted to frustration. He had hoped that Kyren would reconsider his decision after their conversation, but the grand duke remained reclusive once more.

The second-in-command knight shook his head in defeat.

"I thought he would change his mind. I sincerely did," he sighed. "But I guess I am wrong this time."

Garin shared the same frustration. Nevertheless, they had to face the trial with or without Kyren.

The door was opened following the announcement as they arrived, and the group was led inside. The knights and the healer took their places within the royal court after paying their respects to the king.

"The offenders are required to kneel before His Majesty for the trial," Lord James declared, glancing at Kiev and Anna with disgust in his eyes.

"No need. Prince Kiev is royalty, and Lady Raychard is pregnant. They are both already bound. They just need to answer me when I demand," King Kyden replied. "Proceed with the declaration of accusations."

The king signalled to the royal court officer holding the rolled parchment. Lord James scowled as his opinion was bluntly dismissed. Nevertheless, the trial had begun, and there was no room for argument.

"His Highness Prince Kiev Naver of Sabel Island and Lady Anna Raychard, the Royal Concubine of Gerhard, are hereby accused of having an illicit affair associated with adultery, which has led to an out-of-wedlock pregnancy," announced the officer.

Kiev closed his eyes as the accusation was read. Anna, beside him, remained calm. Both showed no fear toward the charges.

"State who the witness is for this crime," ordered King Kyden.

Sarah stood up boldly.

"It is I, Lady Sarah James, one of the witnesses to the commotion when the pregnancy was revealed. Sir Eric Navin, the second-in-command Knight of Gerhard, admitted that Lady Raychard and His Highness Prince Kiev spent a night in the forest."

"And why would you be so confident in this accusation?" the king asked.

"Because you were there, Your Majesty, along with His Royal Highness the Grand Duke and his people. Both of you were also witnesses, and you declared that it was impossible for Lady Raychard to bear His Royal Highness’s child since he is impotent," Sarah continued.

Gasps echoed through the royal court, accompanied by the murmur of whispers.

"Silence!" King Kyden raised his voice. He then proceeded to explain, "Correction, Lady James. I never said that the Grand Duke was impotent. I stated that no woman can bear his heir."

"Isn’t it the same, anyway?" Sarah questioned.

King Kyden opened his mouth to respond, but the doorkeeper suddenly rushed over and whispered in Charles’s ear, interrupting his speech.

The king’s eyes trailed upon the sudden occurrence, anticipating some form of intervention. The chamberlain then delivered the message to the king, who nodded.

"Announce them," he ordered.