The marquis's words echoed through the courtroom, instantly silencing the murmurs and chatter that had filled the air. All the nobles present turned their gaze towards him as if he had grown two heads.
Was the marquis blind? Didn't he notice Grand duke Cortez in the courtroom?
''Your majesty, that beast must not be kept in the empress's palace. The innocent lives are at risk if the beast remains with her majesty.'' Marquis Markell's voice cut through the air, firm and resolute, ignoring the stares of the other nobles. In his mind, this was a prime opportunity to undermine the Empress.
''And what of nuts, Marquis Markell?'' The Grand duke's retort was swift and sharp, as expected. He was not one to sit idle, particularly when the Empress was the subject of discussion.
