novelzi Chapter 186 Royal Court
Chapter 186 Royal Court
Within the resplendent halls of the royal palace, where intricate chandeliers cast a golden glow over polished marble floors, Regulus Hestia, Emperor of the Hestia Empire, sat upon his majestic golden throne.
The royal court was gathered in full, a rare occurrence that signified the gravity of the situation. On either side of the emperor, the prime minister, queen, crown prince, and an assembly of high-ranking ministers sat in their designated places.
But today's audience extended beyond the usual court officials.
Among the attendees stood some of the most powerful figures in the empire—individuals whose mere presence demanded attention:
Duchess Elara Frost and Duchess Ophelia Mystic, both renowned pillars of noble power.
Magic Tower Master, an enigmatic figure whose wisdom shaped the empire's magical advancements.
Samatha Hall, representing the Arcane Academy.
Grand Marshal Damien Valtor, the supreme commander of the imperial army.
Their presence only reinforced the urgency of the matter at hand.
A hush fell over the hall as Dooth, the emperor's trusted royal messenger, stepped forward. His voice echoed through the chamber as he declared:
"Let the court commence."
The proceedings began without delay.
Dooth scanned the room before continuing, his tone firm and measured.
"Firstly, Grand Inquisitor Veyron Duskbane, you will present the findings of your investigation before the royal court."
Veyron Duskbane stepped forward with measured steps, his black cloak trailing behind him. As he reached the center of the royal court, he knelt before the emperor with practiced precision.
"Long live the emperor. Glory to the great Hestia," he declared, his deep voice echoing through the chamber.
Emperor Regulus Hestia gave a small nod, acknowledging the greeting. "Rise, Grand Inquisitor. Begin your report."
Veyron stood, his sharp gaze sweeping across the gathered officials before he spoke.
"According to our investigation, at approximately 12:00 PM yesterday, an armed attack was carried out at the Royal Museum by individuals suspected to be part of the rebel army."
A quiet murmur rippled through the court, but Veyron continued, his voice firm and unwavering.
"Despite the presence of royal guards, a portal was somehow opened inside the museum. This strongly suggests internal involvement—someone on the inside must have helped facilitate the breach."
The weight of his words settled over the court. It was one thing for enemies to strike from the outside—but an internal betrayal? That was far more dangerous.
Several nobles exchanged tense glances, but Veyron pressed on.
"Based on survivor testimonies, a group of hooded figures—suspected to be demon contractors—were seen
This was Regulus Hestia, the Emperor of the Hestia Empire.
His golden eyes locked onto Samantha. "Tell me, girl... why didn't you take the sword from Arthur's hands?"
His voice was calm, but there was an unmistakable edge to it.
"Do you not know? No mortal can remain sane after wielding it."
Samantha swallowed hard, feeling the weight of the emperor's coercive presence pressing down on her. "I-I know, Your Majesty," she stammered, struggling to keep her composure. "But… that sword had no effect on Arthur. I can vouch for that. It was—" she hesitated, searching for the right words, "—obedient in his hands."
The emperor's expression darkened. "And you expect me to believe that?"
Before Samantha could respond, Duchess Elara Frost stepped forward.
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"I can confirm her words, Your Majesty." Her voice carried the weight of undeniable authority. "I was at the scene. Every individual present at the museum was thoroughly examined afterward. Arthur Ludwig was unconscious, but his mind was intact. There was no trace of demonic corruption on him—or anyone else."
A murmur spread through the court.
"How is that possible?" someone questioned, voicing what many were thinking.
Elara's gaze swept across the room before settling back on the emperor. "We will have to wait for Arthur to regain consciousness," she stated firmly.
A heavy silence followed before the emperor exhaled slowly.
"The court is adjourned."
With that, he rose from his throne and departed, his retinue of guards falling in step behind him.
As he strode down the grand corridors of the palace, an elderly woman walked beside him, keeping pace with ease despite her age.
"What are you thinking, Regulus?" she asked, her voice calm yet knowing.
The emperor let out a weary sigh. "Hah… I think it's time we meet our grandson. Don't you agree, Helena?"
The empress—Helena Hestia—allowed a small smile to cross her lips. "You finally mentioned it. How long has it been since I saw my grandson?"