Bright One | Empire of Blood and Swords Series

34. Interrogation

-34-
-Interrogation-

All of us were in the throne room for the interrogation. All forty plus of us. I never knew the royal court consisted of so many people. Twenty of the people are the royal family, excluding the youngest two who doesn't seem to be present at times like these. All the others were courtiers.

Turns out, not all of The Five were generals. Nixon was the seneschal, Athos had another title which I forgot. I were to wear a cloak, and glamoured so no one can truly see through me.

Sitting on the throne was Thompson. He looks sad and tired. Probably because Lucia isn't here. She is unwell, and Kakak Erna is there to take care of her. On Thompson's head was the crown, the King of Kells. Kong, Kim, Paul, Sun, Harrison and Vincent sat on the thrones prepared for them just a step lower on the dais. Their wives a step lower. And the youngest generation on the lowest step.

Saoirse was well enough to attend. After that talk with her two days ago, she slept on her bed that night. And the healing room has been empty and quiet ever since. But at least she's well. Sapphire's fists were balled, her eyes ice cold as she stared at the courtiers.

There were so many titles and positions I lost track of who was most important. There was a jester, masters, keepers, grandmasters and many more. But were they really necessary here?

I stood close to Saoirse, with Zachery by my side. He was in his armor, a sword ready in hand.

There were lots of noises. Chitchats every here and there, laughter coming from somewhere, even a heated argument. It's like they forgot why they were here in the first place.

I see Sapphire turn to Kim, her face irritated. She whispered something and Kim shook his head in disagreement. She turned back and huffed. Saoirse raised an eyebrow and pat her sister on the back.

From the corner of my eye, I can feel Seth's burning gaze. I decided to take a glance. Though I'm sure he can't see through the glamour, our eyes met. The longer we stare at each other, the louder the thumping of my heart beats in my ear. I shouted at him. I said things without thinking it through. I have to apologize soon.

A man in coats of red, showered with small jewels walked out. The announcer, it seems. He cleared his throat, clapping twice to attract everyone's attention. The crowd went silent, but remained standing. Their faces turned serious, as if they know which role they have to play starting from now on.

"Today, we are to decide the fate of general Athos. He attacked one of the royals three nights ago." The eyes of every courtier widened in shock. I'm sure I would too if the first in command had attacked the princess. After years of caring for the family. The announcer turned to the door. "Bring the prisoner in."

The door swung open to reveal a very dirty Athos in heavy chains on his wrists, ankles and neck. His clothes were bloodied, and it came to me that he hadn't changed since the night he shot Saoirse. Escorting him out were Ryker and Nixon, their faces taunt, jaw clenched. I could've sworn Zachery's grip on the sword tightened. Rubio trailed behind them, a sword in hand.

He was pushed onto his knees, in front of the dais. His eyes went to Saoirse for a split second, searching her face for any sign of injury. Saoirse only showed him her fangs.

"Athos, son of Athías," the announcer addressed. "You shot Princess Saoirse Wolfblood in the chest after she returns from Yellowstone. Do you deny this?" Athos shook his head. "So you are guilty."