Chapter 85

The palace was noisier than usual, filled with many people. To ensure that this trial was conducted fairly, anyone who entered the palace was allowed to attend. Therefore, not only the nobles but also those who worked in the palace and were off-duty were present. Everyone was speculating about who had aided the rebels and who would be judged. When they saw Opal and Claude, they quickly made way and continued their whispers in hushed tones.

"What a crowd."

"I doubt everyone will fit in the grand hall."

"What about those who can't get in?"

"His Majesty said he would open all the windows and doors of the grand hall, so they might peek from there, right?"

"They won't be able to see anything."

"That's probably the same even if they're inside the grand hall."

"You're right."

It was doubtful whether they could hear, but Opal murmured in agreement. Someone deliberately said, "How can you so brazenly stand beside the Duke? Unfaithful people must have thick nerves, I guess."

It seemed they were talking about the elopement. A ripple of laughter spread through the crowd, but the two of them ignored it and headed for the grand hall.

"By the way, how is Julian?"

"I don't need to worry about him."

"I'm not worried. But Claude, you're keeping secrets from me again, aren't you?"

"I'm not hiding anything."

Claude answered Opal, who had been reminded of Julian by the elopement rumors, nonchalantly. If that was the case, he should have told her earlier. Claude was as mean as ever. Opal pinched Claude's arm in protest.

"Ouch!"

"You're overreacting."

Turning her face away from Claude, who exaggeratedly cried out, Opal entered the waiting room first. A maid was waiting there and immediately started preparing tea when she saw Opal and Claude.

"Can we take our time with tea?"

"They will start letting the audience—no, the spectators—into the grand hall soon, so it will take some time. They'll probably fight over the best spots."

"Poor people in charge."

"The center will be secured by the Royal Guard, so it should be fine. Those who don't comply will be forcibly removed."

"So, the spectators will fight among themselves, then."

"Exactly. It will be quite a show."

"You're so mean."

Opal laughed and thanked the maid who had poured the tea. Claude also thanked her and took a cup. The maid bowed happily and retreated to the corner of the room. Just as Opal was about to bring her cup to her mouth, the door suddenly opened without a knock.

"Claude! What's going on?! This morning, my brother and father were taken away by the Royal Guard who suddenly appeared at the mansion!"

"They are the leaders of the rebellion."

"What nonsense! Just because my mother is the daughter of the Duke of Bottselli, it doesn't mean they can frame them like this!"

"Whether it's a frame-up or not will be clear once the trial begins."

Baron Prado's Erik, who had burst into the room, confronted Claude with a burst of energy. It seemed he was shocked and couldn't accept that his father, the Marquis of Bapott, and his brother, the Viscount of Turi, had been arrested as leaders of the rebellion. It was clear that Erik had not been informed of anything—neither by Claude nor by his family. Opal felt sorry for him.

(He hasn't quite grown up in his thinking or actions.)

The guilt of Erik's father and brother was certain, and Opal only didn't know what judgment would be passed. Even if Erik and his family were not implicated, they would have to face a difficult path. But people can change at any age. Just as Hubert had skillfully handled the situation and brought the Marquis of Sames to the trial, Erik could also grow. As Opal thought this and put down her cup, Erik's attention turned to her.

"It's your fault! Everything has been strange since you arrived!"

"Erik, you—"

"It's okay, Claude! I'm used to it."

Claude showed a moment of anger at Erik, who pointed at Opal and accused her. But when Opal intervened, Claude muttered, "Used to it..." and backed off.

"Baron Prado, don't you think it's time you grew up?"

"What—!"

"Your words can influence many people. Be aware that your actions are observed and judged by many."

Erik, who was about to protest Opal's words, seemed to notice that the maid in the corner looked frightened. He closed his mouth and glared down at Opal. Just as Claude couldn't hold back and was about to speak, a knock echoed through the room. The maid, who seemed to be fleeing, went to answer the door and opened it wide.

"His Grace the Duke of Bottselli and Lady, it is time. Please proceed to the grand hall."

"Understood."

After a moment, Claude stood up and answered the attendant. He then ignored Erik and offered his hand to Opal.

"Shall we go, Opal?"

"Yes. Thank you, Claude."

Opal looked only at Claude, stood up, and headed for the exit. Erik finally came to his senses and looked at Opal. It seemed he was reflecting on her words. At the exit, Opal glanced back, hoping that Erik would grow from this experience.