CASTLE OF JEMIMA

Investigation

My brothers vanished into the castle, Sire Luke at their heels. My parents remained frozen, shock etched on their faces like stone.

I didn't hesitate. I sprinted toward the Workers' Castle, desperate for Ruth's comforting presence.

This news was too much to bear alone.

"Jemima!" Father's urgent call stopped me. I turned, bowing swiftly.

"Father, I must see Ruth."

His eyes, clouded with worry, locked onto mine. With a curt nod, he signaled his guard to follow me.

I stifled a scoff, rolling my eyes.

Did he truly believe I needed protection. These guards were no match for my skills.

I broke into a run, the guard struggling to keep pace.

I burst into Ruth's room, slamming the door shut behind me, leaving my guards outside.

Ruth sprang up from her bed, book falling to the floor, her legs unfolding from their crossed position.

"My lady," she said, concern etched on her face.

"You left me to endure that torture alone!" I exclaimed. "I have so many stories to share, but one urgent matter - a maid's been found dead in the castle!"

Ruth's eyes widened in horror. "Mother Nature!"

"Is it... confirmed who it is?" she asked, her voice trembling.

I shook my head. "I couldn't bear to look alone. I needed you."

Ruth's expression turned grave. "What if it's Elena?"

My heart froze, shock rendering me speechless.

Fear gripped me like a vice.

"How did I not think of her?" I whispered.

Without another word, I rushed to the door, Ruth close behind.

The door swung open before we could touch it, revealing Elena, her face contorted in anguish.

"My lady, Ruth... Julian is dead!" Elena wailed, collapsing to her knees.

Ruth's eyes welled up with tears as she knelt beside Elena.

"Julian, our dear friend, our agemate... What happened?" Ruth asked,

Anxiety gripped my heart.

Elena's words tumbled out between sobs. "She was found in Sire William's arms, covered in blood."

A chill ran down my spine.

Ruth rose, determination etched on her face. "We must go."

We left Elena behind, her tears echoing through the corridors.

The second ballroom, once filled with laughter, now housed a gruesome scene.

Julian's lifeless body lay in Sire William's arms, surrounded by knights.

The air was heavy with sorrow.

Outside, Julian's parents and siblings wept uncontrollably. Ruth and I stood amidst the knights, our eyes fixed on the tragic sight.

Jacob, the seasoned palace herbalist, examined Julian's lifeless body, still cradled in Sire William's arms. He donned gloves, his experienced eyes scanning Julian's fragile form.

"My lord," Jacob bowed to my father, "initial examination reveals signs of abuse: neck and hand bruises, and a severe head wound. I require 24 hours to conduct further examination."

Jacob's reputation was impeccable; he is in his late forties, but has over twenty years of unwavering dedication to his craft, inheriting his father's legacy. His word was truth.

"Samuel," Father commanded, "escort the body to Jacob's chambers, ensure its safety. Commence investigation and keep me informed."

Samuel bowed, followed by the room's occupants. My father departed, flanked by his three personal guards, leaving behind an atmosphere thick with tension and unanswered questions.

As the door closed behind Father, the room's silence was palpable. Samuel issued orders, his voice firm and decisive.

"Sire Luke and Sire Henry, escort the body to Jacob's chambers. Sire Lawrence and Israel, take Sire William into custody."

The knights swiftly carried out his instructions.

As the room emptied, I rushed to Samuel's side. "Samuel!" I urged, my voice laced with concern.

"What is it, Jemima?" he asked, his expression stern.

"You don't think Sire William killed her, do you?" I asked, pain etched on my face.

Samuel's gaze softened. "He can't defend himself right now. Didn't you see his state?"

"Because he's in shock," I countered.

Sharon intervened, "shocked that he mistakenly killed his lover?"

Tristan cut in, his words mirroring my unspoken thoughts. "Or maybe shocked that he found her dead?"

Samuel and Simeon exclaimed in unison, "Ohhhh, Tristan!" Their faces lit up with warm smiles as they enveloped him in a hearty hug.

The brief moment of joy was a welcome respite from the darkness that had settled over the castle.

Ruth's whispered words tickled my ear. "Who is that man? The ladies will be swooning over him soon."

Her chuckle faded into the background as my heart quickened. I locked eyes Tristan, his captivating smile holding me spellbound.

I broke away, my cheeks warming.

How long had he been in the room? I'd been too engrossed in the chaos to notice.

The space had cleared, leaving only my brothers, Ruth, Tristan, and his striking friend.

"Sire Leon?" Samuel ventured, uncertainty lacing his voice as he stared at Tristan’s friend.

The stranger bowed. "Yes, brother."

Samuel's eyes lit up. "We've got a lot to catch up on, but now's not the time."

"I'm well-versed in such situations," Tristan said, his voice confident. "I've handled similar cases over time. I'd be happy to assist."

Samuel's face lit up with gratitude. "Your expertise would be invaluable, Tristan. I'd really appreciate your help."

Their exchange sparked my curiosity. How did my brothers come to know Tristan? Yet, it was clear they held him in high esteem, a respect usually reserved for our parents.

"Where can we convene secretly to discuss?" Tristan asked in whispers