The palace courtroom was packed to the brim. Nobles, council members, and prominent figures from across the kingdom filled the space, their expressions ranging from curiosity to disdain. Scarlett stood in the centre of the room, her wrists bound by silver cuffs that glinted in the light streaming through the stained-glass windows. Her once-golden reputation lay shattered, replaced by a name whispered with contempt.
King Damien sat at the head of the court, his expression a mask of calm authority. To his right sat Elenor, her hand resting protectively over her belly, and to his left sat former King Alfred, who had been called upon to oversee the trial due to its significance. The royal court buzzed with quiet murmurs as the charges against Scarlett were read aloud by the royal advisor.
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