Rejected, But Mine

The Trial

Kong sat on the throne, this time alone. A sense of loneliness and cold crept up his skin at the thought of his hibernating mate. He closed his eyes heaving a sigh and gave the court a once-over as determination sparkled in his eyes.

Kong cleared his throat gaining attention from everyone assembled. He could understand their anxiousness about Arthit's current condition.

Kongpob's voice pierced through the silence, "Your highness is out of the critical stage. They are currently recuperating from the poisoning.". Audible sighs were heard as the visible tension lightened.

Kongpob's eyes briefly met with Bright and his family who were put on the trial accused of poisoning and attempt to murder the sovereigns.

Kongpob knew Bright or his family would never do such a horrible thing since they have been one of the most loyal families to the Rojanapats for generations. Not to mention Bright and Rome who were part of their most trusted inner circle of friends. But that doesn't mean they will receive any privilege. Everyone is equal before the throne and are subjected to the same law without advantages in favor of any person.

Kongpob gave a reassuring smile to the family standing under trial which was reciprocated with a comforting nod.

The Regent Luna gestured towards Knot who came forward and broke the silence, "Mr.Janngeon, your family stand accused of poisoning and attempted murder of our sovereigns. Anything you say may be used in evidence against you in a court of law. You have the right to remain silent.", Knot looked at his friend, "How do you defend yourself ?".

Bright's father, Tonhon came forward and bend his knees, "Your highness, Please consider that my family has always been a closest alley to the throne. Our deeds throughout the generations for the royal family can attest that we will never betray our sovereignty. I and my family plead not guilty and kindly request his highness to drop the charges."

Kongpob exchanged glances with Aroon and Lita who were present in the court before speaking, "Rise.", he continues locking eyes with Tonhon, " I am made well aware where your loyalty lies. That's exactly why I have to prove your innocence. It's also my duty to reassure our subjects I didn't put my trust in wrong hearts."

A thin and sudden smile curved on Kongpob'lips, "So tell us Mr. Janngeon. How did you acquire the wine?".

Tonhon looked at Kongpob as he started talking, "The ingredients were personally handpicked from our vineyard, and the wine was prepared in our winery all by me. And we brought it to the palace grounds last week."

"How many bottles?", with Kongpob's permission, it was Knott who asked the question.

"Three. Two was offered to the highnesses, while the third one was gifted to my son and his mate.", Tonhon replied.

"How did you transport the offering?", Knott demanded.

This time it was Bright who answered , not before bowing to the Regent Luna. "Your highness.", he addressed Kongpob politely, "We traveled by our cars. Our parents followed me and my mate. We had all three bottles in my car. Two were offered to you while we consumed half of the other."

"Where is it right now?", Kongpob looked at Bright.

"In our quarters.", Bright said.

Kongpob silently turned to look at Phana who understood what to do next and immediately sent the guards to retrieve the sample for the narcotics department.

"While traveling did you make any stops anywhere?", Kongpob furrowed his brows.

"No.", Bright shook his head dejectedly.