Trial by Error ( Open / Roland ) Rated M

[Deleted]

    Theo felt the nervousness and the anticipation building within the room. He could see some people mourning and weeping in preparation for one of the outcomes. On the faces of others, there was excitement and hatred in their eyes. Theodore had no opinion on the subject matter, and only awaited the trial because it was one of the events of the year.

    Theo thought it best that he attend, out of consideration for the royal group and as he was an unbiased party. Those who are unbiased are necessary for the outcome of a trial. It allows a person to come into the event with a clear mind and a clear consciousness. Theo wanted nothing more than for the trial to proceed, so that he may continue his readings.

    Until the trial started, he waiting impatiently in his seat, awaiting the fate of one Captain Walker.

[Breton Fair'los]

Breton leered at Aria when she spoke up about the Gallows and her being asleep. The girl far more a nuisance than pleasant company in his opinion early this the morning. Her comments continued to be quirky as always; The girl constantly hid behind her humor and fragile smile. One that Breton met with a cold stare and pressed lips, completely unamused at her ‘no pants’ comment.


Though as his emerald eyes trailed down to her dress and then shot back up at her, dead locked in a serious gaze. A small grin was what destroyed the serious expression on his face. A light chuckle escaped, giving Lady wurud a head nod in respect. “ I see that.... Though I have to say you look exquisite this morning, A dress suits you dutchess.” Breton smiled, keeping his eye on Aria as she walked away and approached Lady Aveline. He said nothing after that, turning his gaze from the two women and focusing on another interesting face that entered the trial.


Ah the star had arrived! All dressed up and pretty for this all out trial out for blood. His gaze fixed on Roland Walker as he approached the center of the courtroom. The smile on his face faded into a serious, somber expression. His eyes soon followed the rest of the court guests that would enter the room. A few interesting ones, especially one who took her place by the King. Though he refused to make eye contact with the elf woman as she walked past and began to speak to Noku.


Disgusting…..


Breton’s temper was still unchecked, he could feel his fist trembling at the anticipation. Finally another face arrived, one that he hadn’t expected to be covered in red wine. Breton’s gaze turned to Severine as he stared at the old woman in surprise. She had drunk so much, he was surprised the woman could even walk on her own. A small smirk appearing on his face as the last few people began to come into the courtroom. However, he couldn’t start yet! The main stage hadn’t arrived!


He was beginning to grow impatient when finally the main doors cracked opened. A young guard entering, closing the door behind him in a rushed pace. The guard weaved his way past the people and up to Breton, leaning into whisper something into his ear. Something that made Breton’s smile return. “ Ah good, then it’s here. Now we can begin.” Breton nodded, shooing the guard away to return back outside.


The Regent turned to the rest of the royals who began to take their seats. His voice clear and loud as though he had done hundreds of speeches before.


“ I apologize for the time and the wait! But as you can see by the strangeness of the sky over the Forever Forest. I believe the Gods are saying it is time to decide this man’s fate. Roland Walker, Former Royal Captain of the Civilian Guard… You are brought before this court for claims of kidnapping, forcing seduction on a Noble woman, Failure to perform official duties as a Guard, Left without proper notification of leave during a time when the kingdom was in turmoil! “ breton listed, his voice rising with every word he announced to the courtroom. “ I have heard your defense and plea. All in which I have taken in consideration when bringing you forth before these witnesses, who judge you now. Please Roland, let me hear your thoughts before I give you my last ones. In fact, I want to hear what this court has to say, before I make my final decision. Lets hope someone speaks good of you.” Breton spoke loudly, asking Roland and those around him to speak.

[Noku Noru]

Noku looked at Aria when she mentioned about the name of the tea. His features scrunched in the name of the brew, sense he found it odd that she would drink a tea that was named after a goddess that had attacked their kingdom. Though he didn’t say anything as she made a comment to Breton about not having pants, the remark slipping past him sense he didn’t understand what she meant since she was wearing a dress. Had Aria and Breton met and spent time together? That kinda was a entertaining yet disturbing thought as he began to slowly wake up for this damn trial. He really didn’t understand why Breton wanted it this early. He insisted that it had to be a day break, and sure enough. It was dragging on to be so.


Noku’s attention turned from Aria and Breton when a familiar face entered the courtroom and approached him, Melda one of the women he had grown to respect over the years. She barely gave him any trouble, unlike some women in his court. He smiled at Melda when she approached and spoke to him. A small chuckle escaping. “ Yes, I guess old habits haven’t died. I’m definitely not a morning person.” He smile fading as she walked off to take a seat. Not because she left, but because now he would have to direct his attention to the next thing at hand. The man that walked into the room, Roland Walker. His once most trusted Royal Guard Captain, now standing before him in chains. The sight was something he had grown used to, though seeing it on a familiar face was rather trying on one’s spirit indeed.


He he took a deep breath and exhaled, not sure how to start this or to even say. He had seen the files and the reports…. He felt bad for Aveline who he could see sitting, the expression of fear clear on her features. The room was full of tension in all sorts of directions and he had to stay strong and focus. His nerves calming when Lilith’s voice broke his train of thought and spoke to him. His head quickly turning to look up at the elf woman who curtseyed and smiled at him. His features blank with surprise for a second before they were washed over with relief. “ Good morning. “ He replied with a simple smile in return, his hand reaching out to take hers as she went to curtsey. “ Please sit by me, it would mean the world to me.” He spoke softly to Lilith, glancing over to the empty throne that had been vacant since the last queen had sat in it.


His attention turning to Breton, over hearing the guard speak to him about something being brought out front of the castle called the ‘Daisy’. A brow raised in curiosity as he continued to listen to Breton start the trial, his expression serious the entire time, but he didn’t say a word just yet. Even if Breton made his final word, it was still up to him that decided Roland’s true fate and what would happen in this court.

[Deleted]

Diamond silently observed and gave nods to people he knew as he was in some thought. One thing that the white haired captain saw was the viper Severine. And from his rather keen eyes saw that the woman was very much drunk off of wine. How much of a disrespectful wench was she! It truely made him sick as this was a serious matter as they were going to judge a man to see if he lived or died. No matter though he watched some of the other things going on. Out of everyone there, he did pity Aveline in this entire situation. They had met at a off handed moment after being shanghai'ed into the guard. He did not like her but now it was different, as she was carrying a new life within her. Things changed after Rolland was being brought in and it did surprise him that he looked a bit better. More like he did get some more rest. The tone of the room changed as Breton started to get things rolling on the trial of this man in front of him.  And it seemed that each person would be able to speak and there words could either damn or save him. But he needed to unload some of his thoughts on the man so he stood up.

"I do not have too much of a rapoor with Sir Walker. As the brief time I was forced into his service, my opinions on him were not good. As I found him less of soldier and more of a buracrat that just demanded the loyalty of his men through shear athority. As well as use others for political gain and I am sure you know what I speak of Sir Walker. As that night it seemed that you and Lady Severine were in leauge with something. I do not know if it was ill for his majesty or the kingdom, or not. With all of those things I had no trust in you and knew you were up to something. But as time has passed plus with these charges......something does not add up. I would agree to the charges of not doing your job right. As well as abandoning your post and you should be punished for those actions. But with the charges of kidnapping, forced seduction of a noble woman are a farce. I had heard that you and lady Avaline were married and I had assumed that this was to seal some kind of deal. Or thats what I had thought" said Diamond and knew he was going to have a dagger in his back sooner or later. But he felt that Rolland had made some bad choices.

"I would assume that the so called forced seduction would have been done by magic. As Sir Walker is a rather powerful mage and the Champion of Caster from what I have heard yes? If that spell was in place and broken, wouldn't we see fury or rage on lady Aveline? From what I see on lady Aveline is worry, fright, and dread for the person she loves more then anything in this world as well as the father of her child. So my verdict is this, Rolland Walker should be punished for vanishing from his post. But should not be put to death as the situation is so mired. I do not feel right to sentancing this man to death" he said and again knew that this could get him enemies. "I would like to say this as well, if his majesty, lords, and ladies do feel ire for my thoughts. You may seek a form of punishment afterwords" he said since Diamond knew that he was more or less a commoner. So someone making his thoughts known that one of the most powerful ladies was plotting against the kingdom as public thing. Well things would not do so well.

[Deleted]

Aria had left the flask with Aveline; her attention solely on the crowd that was gathering. She took note of Adrain as he walked in, as well as some other familiar faces. It was amusing to think the last time she had been in such a setting that Garrett had been the only familiar one to her. Aria watched as Lilith took a seat beside Noku; a smile gracing her features. The two did look adorable together. As Breton began to speak Aria turned her attention on him; her eyes immediately switching towards the windows as he mentioned the clouds. The sight causing her to frown…anything starting over the forever forest was ominous. She turned back as Breton listed the charges; blunt with very little detail…and then giving Roland and others a chance to state their opinion.

Aria had expected Roland to plead his case first; to explain the charges against him…or even Severine whom had very strong opinions on the subject…it was Severine that Aria suspected was the one to add the seduction charge to the list of what he already had. To her surprise it was neither of the two whom spoke first….but Melda’s former guard. Aria turned her attention to Diamond….who immediately added a new charge…to not only the one on trial but Severine whom so far was painted as somewhat of a victim in this crime. As her daughter was the one supposedly under the spell and her family named besmirched. Politics was not this man’s strong suite. Worse he accused them of plotting treason. As Diamond finished Aria waited for Severine or perhaps even Roland to defend themselves against such an accusation or at least give more details regarding the case. As silence went on Aria felt the need to speak, however she would withhold her opinion until she had more sides of the story. Aria stood and cleared her throat.

”Before I form any opinion; I honestly would very much like to hear the details and motivations behind each accusation. As the details of this entire case have been, as I have been told, between just Breton and Lady Zoe. Lady Zoe I believe you’ve had strong opinions on this matter as well; I recall you said Aveline was not accepting vistors until the …spell was worn off. You stated very firmly you believed your daughter was under such an influential spell; which from my understanding is difficult to maintain for long periods of time..As Diamond just stated the spell is or has supposedly been lifted, is this accurate to your knowledge? ” After asking Lazy Zoe her question Aria turned to Roland, her facial expression kept straight. ”Mr. Walker right now most of all of us are going off of what can be safely assumed rumors. I would very much like to hear your side of the story as well.”

Honestly without either of them speaking she didn’t know how they expected the trial to go, if all the knowledge they had on the case was rumors. Jumping to conclusions could be very dangerous based on the information they had, which explained the silence of the room so well.

[Roland]

Roland stood with a measured expression the dozens of stares fell upon him, and as Breton read off the charges. He was not surprised to hear them, after all he'd been told them several time by this point. When Breton finished he began to open his mouth, but he was cut off by Diamond's words...well he supposed that was as much of a recommendation he could hope to get from the white haired gentleman. Then Aria spoke and he frowned, she knew the details, though he supposed not officially.

Finally it came time for him to speak and he opened his mouth to explain his stance. "The only charges I can truly outright deny are the enchantment and treason charges, I have circumstances for the ones regarding my post so I will explain those after I address the other charges."

Roland cleared his throat and began to speak. "Aveline and I were paired in the Blossom Festival last year and during that time we became friends. Over the course of the following year we continued to get to know each other and eventually that developed into an actual relationship. I have used no magic to try and bewitch or enchant her. As noted by several others present such magic would have worn off while I was imprisoned and besides I do not know enchantment magic of that sort. As for the treason charges, I have not committed any, I will explain where I was following my departure from the city next."

"After Aveline and I were married I..." He seemed to falter for a moment as if he was trying to think of the reason he had done something, but could not...why had he felt it was important for him to get out of the city? "we left on our honeymoon, Lady Mysteria, my supervisor had instructed me to take time off to recuperate so I decided that it would be a good opportunity to do so. We went to the crystal springs for two nights and then left to head to Walker county."

"Once we were there I explained to my brother I had been married and he asked us to stay for a week as part of a celebration and to work out my new duties within the family following the death of our father. During this week Aveline fell sick and it was decided it was not safe for her to travel. I decided to stay with her, but had to return to the city during the siege where I defended one of the walls. There were dozens of defenders who can likely attest to my presence there. Unfortunately I needed to leave almost immediately after due to Aveline's worsening condition." He explained.

"I sent several correspondences to Mysteria during my time away, though it appears they were never received. When Aveline became well enough to travel we returned to the city and then I was arrested soon after." As he finished talking he locks eyes with Breton and then his eyes drift to Noku. "I apologize for my absence, and if these reasons are deemed unfit I shall bear no grudge no matter the penalty." Roland's eyes seemed to carry a strength. It was true that he was in a bad situation, but he was in a courtroom receiving a trial. He had brought hundreds of others to this point without remorse and he would not shy away now that he was the one on trial.

[severine]

A cruel smile comes over Severine’s lips as she steps down, with the click of her heels, past the partition and towards Roland to address the assembled. At the sight of her mother’s smile Aveline shrinks, eyes darting fearfully to Roland.

“Your Majesty.” Severine curtsies, then gestures to the crowd. “My most notable courtiers. As you can see, the man before us is full of nothing but weak excuses. First-” Severine holds up a jeweled finger. “The facts. The traitor Lady Mysteria was close to Walker. Close as subordinate and boss, close enough to give instruction to leave the kingdom. Secondly- his claim to defend our city. It is unverifiable other than his own weak words. If that is true, why did he not fight more? What man, a true man of our kingdom, a true soldier, would choose to stay at the bedside of a woman whom he could not help rather than do his duty and defend the kingdom?”

“But was is, and I must insist upon this, very clear, is that we cannot trust the man before us. You all know this man’s reputation. Sullen and craven. A dark thorn in our garden of court. And at first I too thought it couldn’t be true. No man would fall so far. Any simple enchantment would break once they were parted. But then- then I realized.” Severine turns her head to her daughter, whose gaze snaps from Roland to stare at her mother with wide, dark eyes. Severine turns her head to look at Roland, advancing on him. “Walker claims to not know such a magic, but why should we believe his words? He’s a traitor. At first I thought that it might have only been a spell. Or perhaps a charm in the form of rings. But his spell still held firm when they were removed. But you put darker magic, a darker, deeper spell on her, didn’t you?”

Severine’s head whips back to Aveline, pointing her jeweled finger back at her. “The guard is correct, wouldn’t she be angry if she was under a spell? But she is still under a spell, isn’t she? You put a curse inside of her that you can’t break with all the distance you put between you. That child is your curse, isn’t it? Binding her to you? Wasn’t taking her from me cruel enough? You had to bewitch her with your child!”

Aveline’s voice returns from her shock, shaking and fragile, her hands gripping the partition between the crowd and Roland. “That-”

“See!” Severine exclaims, pointing to Aveline again. “The spell still holds! Your Majesty, I must insist that she be removed from the proceedings, lest the spell further corrupt her. Let steps be taken to purge this evil from her.”

“That- that’s not true!” Aveline’s voice cracks, her eyes filling with tears. “I’m not- Your Majesty, please!” she turns to Noku, her voice catching with every word. “I’m not- I’m not enchanted! Please, I beg you, don’t send me away, he’s done nothing wrong! Please! If there’s any love in your heart your Majesty please believe me that I love him! I’m not bewitched!” she swallows hard, eyes still on Noku. “Let me tell the court what I told you.”

[Yuki D'Avranches]

Yuki sat there carefully drinking her tea to help wake her up as more people filed in taking their seats for the trial. Looking out one of the windows watching the sky wondering why they had to be up so early in the morning to decided if a man was guilty yes or not. Her attention was brought back to the reason for them being there when Breton talked about the reason for the trial from the strange clouds over the over forever forest to the charges laid on Roland. She did almost want to laugh at the mention of kidnapping from what she has known about the man he wasn't the type to kidnap someone.



She waited for either Roland to speak to defend himself but it was Diamond that broke the silent. As she listened to him her eyes turn to Lady Severine wondering if anything of it had any truth and if that Diamond was suggesting that both Roland and Severine were working together in secret then this whole trial made no sense. Why would Severine want to see the man she been plotting with be put on trial if she needed him it made no sense to her at all. Then again people did not always make sense when it came to climbing the social ladder. 


Still waiting for someone else to speak she took a sip of her tea as she poured another cup to give her more energy to deal with the craziness of the courts. Listening to Aria she had to nod her head at what she said since most of the details of the charges were hush-hush and just hearing the charges wasn't enough to form a proper opinion of if Roland was guilty of all crimes or just some of them As soon as Roland started to plead his side she listened to story taking in each detail and his counter to each of the charges. Then Lady Zoe began to speak she listened to the woman claims of her daughter having to be enchanted to love Roland that was until she spoke about purging the evil from her daughter her eyes widen in shock that she would even suggest killing her own grandchild.



Placing her tea down not able to take this anymore standing up from her seat she made her way over Lady Aveline first. Placing a hand on the woman's shoulder she spoke calmly and low enough so that only Aveline would hear her. "Lady Aveline don't get worked up. This is what she wants don't give into her the reactions she wants." Her eyes shifted to Serevine as they harden looking at the woman. "I know it is hard but try to be calm." Once that she said she would make her way to the middle of the court.



Looking up at Noku then Lilith the man still scared her but she had to do this. Dropping into a low curtsy to the both of them."Your Majesty and Lady Harmonia." Turning to look at the crowd. "Members of the court I stand here with you all today." Her eyes landed on Lady Zoe. "This woman if she had any humanity would not be here convincing us that we need to rid the world of an innocent life that been created out of love. The way she speaks makes me believe that she is the one under an enchantment, not her daughter."



Taking a deep breath before she continued to speak. "I myself have only known Roland Walker since I began my stand here. During said time I have spoken with him once when there was a report that I was kidnapped on my wedding day. This man personally went out of his way to find me and bring me home after clearing the issue that I was not kidnapped but left of my own free will. Because of this, I find it hard to believe that he would kidnap a lady of the court let along enchant her to love him." Placing a hand over her own heart, as she paused letting her words sink in before continuing. "Lady Aveline Zoe, as you saw by her display that is not a woman under an enchantment that is true pure love that is rarely found in these days of arranged marriages." Pointing at Serevine. "This woman is just upset that her daughter had decided to follow her heart and not have a traditional marriage of convenience. The only charges that Roland should be judged for here today would be Failure to perform official duties as a Guard and Left without proper notification during a time when the kingdom needed him."



Taking a calm deep breath she turned and faced Noku and Lilith once again. "That is all I have to say, Your Majesty and Lady Harmonia" Curtsying once again she walked out, heading back to her seat picking up her tea set and moved closer to Aveline she might not know the woman that well but she felt that the woman needed a friend at the moment.

[Deleted]

❊ BACK TO NEVERLAND ❊

Lilith could find no more words in her that could help console Aveline- nothing strong enough in her vocabulary. Thankfully Aria joined her, offering Aveline a drink to help calm her nerves. When Aria turned to leave, Lilith did the same, repeating Avelines words. Gods be with you as well. She murmured softly. As she approached Noku, she blushed at his look of surprise, blushing harder as that quickly changed to relief. His own smile caused hers to widen slightly as he reached for her hand. As he spoke softly, Lilith felt her face plunge into a pool of red, the blood rushing into her cheeks. O-of course Your Highness. Lilith replied with a smile, slowly taking her seat, breathing carefully as she did. Once she was seated, sure smiled at Noku again, happy he wanted her there. 

Shortly after this, the man on Noku’s right side, Breton, began to speak. Immediately Lilith felt a chill run down her spine. Something about that man always made her feel a bit queasy. When he made mention of the sky, Liliths eyes darted to the window, having missed it on her walk here. She’d been so focused on her nerves and work lately, that she’d been spending far less time enjoying the world around her- and as thus hadn’t looked up at the sky in what felt like forever. Upon seeing the changing clouds, Lilith felt a pit forming at the bottom of her stomach. It couldn’t be good at all. Did it have to do with Helena? Was she back? Or what it something new this time? Questions whirled around her head, but for the time being she put them to rest, choosing to focus on Breton. As he listed the charges Liliths face changed. Kidnapping? Seduction? Lilith couldn’t protest the charge again his post and his absence, but those two seemed so out of place. One look at Aveline and you could easily tell that wasn’t true. When Breton was finished speaking, Lilith turned her eyes to Noku, trying to figure out what he might be thinking- but she came up blank. He really did have a great poker face.

Surprisingly, it was Diamond who spoke first, drawing attention to the right side of the room. Lilith felt her eyes widen as the white haired man went on- his accusations were incredibly bold. Although he did have a fair point: whatever enchantment Roland could have placed on Aveline, would have worn off during his time in jail, but Lilith had never seen the woman’s feelings waver since he’d been locked up. Before Lilith could fully process her own thoughts, Aria spoke up, claiming that a need to her Rolands side to it was key to forming a true opinion on it all- Lilith rather agreed and nodded her head softly. Thankfully Roland seemed willing to reply.

It had been a long time since Lilith had heard Rolands deep voice, so when he begun speaking, she felt herself relax- he had been a good mentor to her, so seeing him in this position hadn’t felt real until just now. She only felt relaxed because she could tell something about him- he wasn’t afraid. She didn’t doubt he had stood near Breton countless times, staring at the poor soul stuck where he was now- being afraid of that now would seem pointless. She was oddly proud of him for that.  She listened as he listed his reasons one by one, addressing earth charge individually. When Roland was done speaking, Lilith started to smile, but it didn’t make it very far, as Severine spoke up immediately after. She addressed Noku, refusing to make eye contact with Lilith to no surprise. As soon as she began Lilith felt her face fall- this was not going in a good direction. 

She compared his love and need to care for his wife, to his duty to the kingdom, as if it was so easy to choose. Roland had a moment of weakness, choosing his sick wife over a battle of undead creatures- he was only human, easily swayed by emotions. That applied to even the hardest of people, like him. As Severine kept speaking, it became clear to Lilith that Severine no longer saw her daughter when she looked at Aveline, but an infected womb, doomed to wreak havoc on her life. It made Lilith sad. Her theory was only confirmed when Severine went on to saw that the real enchantment was the baby, and that it be disposed of. The moment those words left Severine’s mouth, Lilith felt her heart plunge into her stomach, it pounding like it tribal drum. She glanced to Noku, wanting to gauge his response, her own face face and mortified. She knew she would need to learn to control her emotions better- but that was simply outrageous!

Adeline spoke up on her own, surprising Lilith. She’d had the feeling that Aveline would stay quite this time around, but it was a pleasant surprise none the less. Lilith’s heart went out to her again, as she took in the look on her face, and the torn words pouring from her mouth. When she addressed Noku, Lilith turned to him again curiously, wondering what Aveline had told him.

Next was Yuki, who also surprised Lilith. From what she’d seen, Yuki wasn’t incredibly comfortable in this type of setting, so Lilith felt proud of her. She started by greeting them both this time, to which Lilith blushed, feeling nervous again as she nodded her greeting to Yuki in return. The level of sass that first came out of Yuki was alarming, but Lilith quickly came to agree with the young woman. Severine was accusing and innocent life. Accusing and threatening her own Grandchild. When Yuki was finished, Lilith felt compelled to share her own thoughts, not even knowing if it was in her place to. After a slight hesitant glance to Noku, Lilith gathered her skirts and stood once more, stepping out to where Yuki have been standing, addressing everyone she needed to before speaking. 

Before I state where I stand now, allow me to open this with a fact that should already be known to everyone, but lest it should not be, I will be saying it again. Roland Walker was my mentor for a short period of time, teaching me how to better myself and my healing abilities. Were it not for this man I would have long since killed myself. Lilith turned to face Roland, a sad look on her face. Before this day had begun, I knew not why he was on trial at all, and as thus I kept my thoughts on the matter neutral, despite my former relationship with him. It has been quite some time since then, and my being unbiased felt like the wisest choice. Now that I have heard the charges, and his defence of them, I’ve come to these conclusions: Lilith turned away from Roland, towards Breton and Noku, her face stronger than usual, her light eyes hard. This was not the time to be shy and nervous- this was the time to be taken seriously, to have her opinion heard and considered. 

I have spent time with Aveline Walker since they returned to our city. The way she speaks about her beloved- it is not that of a curse, or an enchantment- it is that of love. I have witnessed the pure worry, anxiety and grief for him. It is because of my witnessing this, that I believe with my whole self, that she was neither kidnapped, nor seduced into anything- and I have an example that may help prove that. Months ago, when I first came to Roland for help and a job here at the castle, I met Lady Aveline. Even back then, he was sweet to her, different with her, and she to him. Lilith turned her hardened eyes to Severine now, narrowing them. And I mention this purely because this was long before she was carrying  his child. So how could it possibly be whats enchanting her? That innocent baby is nothing more than that- an innocent life. It has no knowledge about whats happening here, to its family now. To hear that poor child be brutally accused and even threatened… its sickening. Lilith shook her head, turning away from Severine. It was clear to me from the day I began working here that Lady Aveline and Roland Walker were in love. I firmly believe the only charges to be considered here today, are that of him leaving his post. Lilith glanced over her should at Roland, giving him a bittersweet “I tried” smile, before looking away and taking her seat next to Noku once more, cowering into it. 

Her heart was pounding in her chest, her breathing becoming hard to manage. She didn’t know how she was able to do all of that, but it was becomingly terrifyingly aware to her that Severine was standing less than a foot behind her. And in addition to that, she had no idea how Noku was going to respond, and the constant worry about “What if I wasn’t supposed to do that” roared through her brain.  All she could do was breathe and hoped someone started speaking soon, her pale eyes glancing up at Noku every few moments.

WORDS:--- TAGS: @tag NOTES:

SHIN OF GS + ADOX

[Roland]

Roland stood and listened to Severine's reply, and for the first time since he entered the courtroom he looked over at Aveline. He tried his best to give her an apologetic smile, but it wound up looking forced and awkward much like it had in the past. That was...until Severine finished her rant.

Roland closed his eyes and he could feel anger boiling up within him. He wanted to shout, to threaten, to tell Severine he would see her dead before he allowed any harm to come to the child, but he couldn't. Roland was on trial for his crimes, and those who broke the law did not have the right to claim dignity or make demands. He carefully pushed down the emotion and took a deep breath

When he opened his eyes the courtroom was suddenly bathed in an amythest hue as the former captain's eyes returned to their usual color...After all, to believe something logically didn't always mean you did not want it deep down.

[Lucinda Noru]

Lucinda sat quietly among the rest of the nobles, simply content to watch the proceedings and to listen. She watched as the court filled quickly, noting Adrain when he entered, Ladies Melda and Yuki, and the Duke Theo. She smiled at all of them briefly and nodded in greeting.

She had not been around Nova long enough to comment on the situation at hand. She'd never met Roland before and only barely knew Lady Zoe and her daughter, never having gotten along much with the two of them. Thus, she did not have an opinion either way. However, she did feel quite sorry for the young Lady Aveline, who appeared to be getting the worst of the situation. The poor dear was with child, clearly in love with her husband, and might honestly lose them both by the end of the day. Lucinda was a bit of a romantic and the situation was troubling to her.

She listened as Breton spoke, wondering what he could possibly have in mind as punishment already before the outcome was even decided. At least he opened the floor for opinions. Diamond was the first to speak, which greatly surprised her considering his position in the court. Though he was the Champion of Mylee, and that at least to her, granted him some say. He presented a fair point on the issue of a possible enchantment but she was confused by his charge of Severine, who was not on trial to her knowledge. Shrugging to herself, she listened as Aria spoke her piece, agreeing with that more than anything so far. Roland and Severine had their turns and despite everything, she was inclined to believe Mr.Walker. He seemed to have a sincerity to him that the Archduchess did not. Aveline's defensive outburst and plea was heartbreaking and Lucinda winced against her better will. Yuki and Lilith's opinions were surprising, more because both women seemed to be fairly quiet.

Lucinda thought she agreed with everyone here except Severine herself, so far. Still, she wouldn't speak unless directly asked though she had to be the most unbiased person in the room in all likelihood. She was anxious to hear what Breton would say next and how this whole thing would end. The situation gave her a lot to think about in consideration of her own secret relationship and made her more determined than ever to learn from Roland and Aveline's mistakes.

[Deleted]

As Roland spoke Aria kept her eyes on Severine, watching her features. She had a feeling as soon as Roland spoke the woman would chime in and say her piece. Even a while back when Roland was first arrested and Aria and Lilith had their little tea time, Aria had started to see how easily the woman was set off. She did not doubt once she heard Roland himself speak of the situation that she would step in not a beat after to tell her version. Sure enough, she was, Aria turned her gaze away from Severine as she spoke, already guessing where it was going. Instead she looked around at the members of the court and their reactions. A large smirk appearing on her face as Severine took it one step further; the horrified expressions on the courts face indicating that things might have just swung in Rolands favor. She had hoped that this would happen, it was what prompted her to ask Roland to give his piece personally. The man sucked at politics, and his attitude wouldn’t compel any sympathy. However Severine natural wackadooness presented loud and proud in the middle of the court would help change the tides. Her gaze glided over to the grumpy guard; yes hearing his child threatened would be infuriating however she wondered if he’d notice it was actually in is favor at the moment. She did however quirk an eyebrow at Mysteria being called a traitor…that was new information.

She did not have the fondness as some had for the man on trial, but she thought the child should at least grow up with a father. From what she saw Roland very much did care for Aveline; and who was anyone to come in between a god chosen pair? She did not want to see him executed; seriously the man still owed finding her sword for her.

One by one people began to speak, to her surprise the two shyest people she had encountered in the castle were one of the first to speak. Aria listened to both Yuki and Lilith; each speaking passionately in the behalf of the grumpy guard. Both gave a wonderful incite to their own experiences with the couple along with highlighting Roland’s own more…redeeming moments. When they said their piece Aria waited for a few moments before speaking herself. ”I can at least confirm, that yes indeed Roland and Aveline were paired at the festival. I was there when it was announced by Ai herself. She has indeed blessed the two’s relationship.” That was right before her crazy ass daughter knocked her out and tossed her in the dungeons with Garrett. Aria then turned her attention to Severine; her head tilting to the side. Really demanding Aveline be removed from the room…She was curious to what the girl had said to Noku though. ”Lady Zoe; you talk of enchantments and bewitching of the whom…but was it not you who sent a special brew of tea, the same one that you served Lilith and myself to Roland in the dungeons? I had the pleasure of intercepting it on my way to find out what was exactly in the brew…should you not be on trial as well for trying to poison not only a prisoner under the guards watch but Lilith and myself as well?” Aria turned to Noku. ”You can confirm my accusation with your servant Yul, along with the herb specialist in the royal infirmary. The tea consisted of special herbs to make the drinker barren, and unable to reproduce.”

Aria turned back to the court, her hands clasped behind her back and a serious expression on her face. ”If I may remind everyone of last year, when the kings wine was tampered with and this woman here refused to drink but handed it to her daughter instead? Do you not find it suspicious that later she makes accusation against the very man tasked to protect his majesty with every fiber of his being? Then not even right after tries to make the woman whom his majesty has shown his affections for barren? With this information I personally question every accusation she has formed against this man.”

Aria paused to let her words sink in..”However despite what his motives or circumstances may have been, he did leave his post. However I would take his motives into account; it was not in a malicious attempt to hurt the kingdom but out of fear and care for his wife….as you can clearly see is validated.”

[severine]

“Lady Yuki, what do you know of the nature of enchantment? Are you a mage? I thought not, you will do well to not speak of things you have no knowledge of, with your clear bias.” Severine waves her hand flippantly, ignoring her daughter with a flick of annoyance. As Lilith spoke, her head turned to her with a sharpness, venom spitting from her lips before she could speak better of it.

“Madam I’m going to give you a lesson that you clearly haven’t learned- know your place. Your place by the king is to look pretty, and to only open those thin lips to him and no one else, and not in public. So you should keep your common elven lips sealed shut while you are in public, no one is or ever will be interested interested in your opinion.”

“Oh? Should we talk of fear then?” Severine turns her head to Aria, her dark eyes wild, the white in her eyes coloring pink. “Should we talk of your conviction, Fated Aria? Should we talk of how the gods apparently blessed the joining of his Majesty and the woman who attempted to murder him? Should we talk of how you were sentenced to punishment right alongside that woman, Fated Aria? Perhaps you should turn to his Majesty and explain right now why your logic entails that he should have been blessed with a murderess. Your accusations do nothing, you have been a liar and a convicted, undeserving leech. You offer no words of truth and never have, you have been a weed in this palace from the start. Why would I do such a thing that you accuse me of? Do you think I care about you? Enough to do what you claim? You are less than nothing and a spiteful, treacherous leech. This is nothing more than the accusations of a Fated bitch!”

Aveline couldn’t breathe. Her knees shook under her as people surrounded her, put their hands on her shoulders, spoke in her defense. They saw in Roland what she had seen in him all along- a deeply loyal man. Tears spilled from her eyes, shaking her head as people spoke of her, better than she deserved to be spoken of.

“It’s not- it’s not as simple as-” she looks up to Roland, breathless at the return of his eyes. She had to speak the truth. “It’s my fault. When Roland proposed, I should have been brave. I should have asked him to tell you, your Majesty. I should have- but I didn’t. I was the one that insisted our wedding be secret. I was the one that planned and hid this!”

Aveline swallowed hard, fighting back the choking in her voice. “I was the one that got sick and caused him to leave his post! I was the one who was too weak and afraid to stand beside him! Because I was afraid of what you would do!” Aveline turns her gaze to her mother, who gives a start. It’s clear on Severine’s face in a blink that this was the first time Aveline has dared to go against her in public, and for a moment she’s speechless. Aveline, not hearing an interjection, presses onward.

“I was so stupid to think that you would have been able to do nothing once we married! But I was so desperate to get away from you that I had to take every single precaution that I could to get away. All my life I’ve been nothing but a possession to you!”

“You-” Severine regains her voice, turning away from Roland to approach her daughter.

“What? What will you do? You can’t use me anymore, I’m damaged goods now!” a smile comes over Aveline’s face, her voice steadier but body still shaking. “Killing Roland won’t make things go back to the way things were. We took away the last bartering chip you had!”

“You will not speak to me-”

“Like this in public? Yes I will! I’ve carried enough of my scars in private. I don’t care anymore! You’ve taken my whole life from me, you won’t take Roland or our child too! But I won’t let this go on without everyone here knowing that every action I took to lead Roland to this spot was to get away from you!”

Aveline’s words were broken by a sharp pain and her vision went sideways. Too shocked to feel much pain, she turned her face back to her mother. Severine had struck her across the cheek, nails and rings scraping across her cheek. The woman didn’t look herself- something had taken hold of her deeply. The whites in her eyes had gone red entirely, creeping dark veins, darker than the umber tone of her skin, were crawling up her neck from behind the high collar of her dress and up to her face. Aveline opens her mouth to speak but no words would come out, as Severine had lunged forward across the partition. Her jeweled fingers and long nails wrapped around and bit into Aveline’s neck, squeezing and stealing her breath.

“You shut up, you shut up!” Severine shrieks, her vision clouding with red. There was fire in her veins- she could feel nothing and see nothing but this, the rage of being turned on, the rage of humiliation.

The unbidden realization that she had lost.





(YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO KILL SEVERINE PLEASE TRUST ME ON THIS)

[Deleted]

Adrain had remained quiet to this point. He was more than prepared to speak in Walker's defense but others were more than eager to step up to that point. The mage had seen value in keeping quiet til now, to lay a low profile until it seemed something was omitted. The old bat Severine was just as...unpleasant as Melda had made her out to be in private. Yuki's boldness took the white haired mage by surprise, whilst Lilith a woman whom he had only brief acquaintance with up to this point also spoke with an elegance beyond what her position suggested. Seeing Noku's initial reactions to Lilith's arrival, it was obvious enough to his eyes what was going on.

It was when the old bat lunged for Aveline, a woman whom was pregnant, hysteric in grief and stress, and by most definitions defenseless that the mage acted. The second the slap was completed, he saw ever so briefly the following attack and the mana in the air bent to his will, surging forth and wrapping around Severine's hands and feet in ice as chains of the element manifests to link hands to feet, likely causing her to tumble back from the sudden restraint and landing upon her back, waddling like a turtle perhaps from the momentum being abruptly halted. He stood, looking at the king, bowing his head.

"Apologies your highness. I know your feelings on magic but I couldn't allow this woman to strangle Lady Walker." he says, then looking at the likely grounded Severine with disgust. "Lady Severine, if Yuki's word isn't enough to confirm Aveline's mental state, then take mine as one of the foremost experts in magic: Lady Walker is not mentally ensorcelled in the least. There are zero traces of external mana within her mind, which would leave a distinct pattern. Unfortunately in a matter such as this, it is hard to prove directly to those who don't partake in magic but I hope my reputation and position would express trust on the matter. Mental magic is very hard to maintain for a long period of time, the means through which you suggest requiring a constant effort on his part. That said..." Adrain states, looking at the rest of the court.

"Roland Walker had always been an honorable, if gruff man. It would not be in his character, nor his power to perform what you state. The mere fact that he has been in the anti magic part of the dungeon would prove as much. Such a spell would have been broken as soon as Roland's mana was suppressed, but yet it seemed Lady Walker did not return to the castle to cry rape and fear in the arms of her...loving...mother." he states with disdain in his voice at the last part. "Lady Walker's reactions just now show not of a woman whom was acted against her will, but of one whom has naught but true bond with the man before trial. Stressed, bearing seed, freshly attacked by mother dearest. I would ask that she be tended to by a healer as soon as possible." he states, then looking at Roland.

"Kidnapping and seduction, these charges I hope have been made evident to be false. With regards to the position regarding his post, I can speak that Roland was defending the North gate during the siege. He seemed strained and less potent with his magic at the time, but he took a part in leading troops and reinforcing the barriers while I was there. When the undead seemed to shift their attack, I followed to continue my own attack and can only assume Roland remained to make certain the gate was protected. He wouldn't have been able to leave and maintain an earthen barrier very well. I can't speak much more beyond what happened after, it isn't in his character to leave during an attack as far as I could tell, but perhaps the issue with Lady Severine here would have prompted him to leave to protect his wife as Duchess Wuruud has suggested. With her apparently attempting to use a concoction to leave women barren, very important women mind you on top of this...display just now I have to admit I think such a leave would be logical. Though I would have thought Walker would have made arrangements beforehand, perhaps paperwork was lost or simply there was a threat to Lady Walker's life that isn't known about here?" he states, his gaze softening.

"Love is a powerful, intangible, unquantifiable force, it can change a person in ways that seem impossible, cause them to defy tradition to protect or enjoy time with a certain person. This is evident with Walker whom was the last person I'd have expected beforehand to act in such a way to protect his wife, and I think it can be said to have strongly changed others as well." his glance shifting to the throne for the slightest of seconds but in a way such only Noku and Lilith would notice if at all as he shifted to look across the room.

"I ask the court and the justice system to take everything into careful contemplation. I don't think Lord Walker should be at risk to lose his life to deny a wife and a child of a skilled, caring person in their lives nor to deny the kingdom a valuable asset. I trust the great wisdom of the court to make the just decision, but also ask that perhaps that Lady Severine be...strongly evaluated for her own actions this day among with other apparent maliciousness, not the least of which is attempting to sterilize a duchess and one whom seems to hold a position of value to the king."

With that, Adrain would return to his seat, letting the guards or others handle the ensnared Severine as they see fit.

[Yuki D'Avranches]

Yuki balled up her fist at Serevine spoke to her like a child, she might be a mage in training but she was on her way to becoming a fully recognize mage. Still, she wasn't going to give the woman that she wanted by reaction out ways she let her eyes speak the rage that was building up for this woman. She tightens her hand around her tea cup happy that she had gotten an enchant tea set so that she couldn't break it by accident out of rage since it wouldn't have been the first time it had happen. "Lady Zoe you speak as if you know everything about my life, based on that statement I know you do not. I know the nature of enchantments and is much more knowledgeable about them than you might be My Lady." She said the last part with sarcasm having lost all respect for the woman.



Taking calm deep breaths as the woman continued to belittle Aria and Lilith, at this point, she was unaware that Aria was fated but still this was not the way for everyone to has found out in her opinion that Aria was fated. At that point, hot tears of angry became too well up in her eyes. As Aveline began to speak Yuki reached out to take her hand to give her a little bit of strength knowing that it must take a lot out of her to stand up to her mother like this. Giving a little reassuring squeeze letting her know that everyone here was going to do they best to make sure that she return home with a husband and a baby even if they had to fight tooth and nail to do so.



When Severine lunged for Aveline, it made Yuki jump wondering if this woman was crazy when the sound of a slap resounded in the room. She felt her own heart starting to race as it seemed like time slowed down between Severine reaching to strangle her own flesh and blood to her hands become encased in chains of ice. Turning around she saw Adrain two things registered on her face the first was of shock that Adrain was sitting on the same side of the room as her meaning that he was a now nobility the second was relief that someone had stopped the crazy woman. Bending down Yuki slipped off her shoes thankful that she had worn simple black low pump heals instead of laced up boots and reached over, with her shoe in her hand as she reached out and slapped Severine with her shoe her voice low enough for only Severine and Aveline to hear. "You are a disgrace to all of us nobles Severine and a disgrace as a mother. You better start praying that Noku has some use for you because after this display you wouldn't have a leg to stand on."



Sitting back down putting on an innocent smile as she slipped her shoe back on in time to hear Adrain apologize to Noku about the use of magic. Taking out the second cup she poured some tea for Aveline sliding the cup towards her. "Here it is apple cinnamon and it is safe to drink in your current condition." She said softly before turning back to listen to what Adrain was saying after he was done she waited till he was done wondering if Noku was going to speak now or if another noble was going to add more to Roland's case to help him be free.
Picking up her own cup she took a sip of her tea letting the warmth fill up and calm some of the rage she was feeling.