Chapter 297

Grand Lord Zaiper

In the Grand High Court, Grand Lord Zaiper stood at the center, his immaculate robes a stark contrast to the unease swirling around him. He had attempted reason many times, always with the same fruitless results. Today, he chose a different approach.

“It has been over a week since our Grand King has been… unwell,” he said, his gaze hardening as he addressed Vladya.

A ripple of whispers ran through the court.

“As you all know, His Grace has faced… challenges in recent years. These challenges have hindered his ability to fulfill his duties to this court and to the people. Perhaps it is time we revisit our sacred text, the Concord of Crowns.”

The murmurs intensified, growing into a low hum of anxious energy. Lords exchanged uncertain glances.

Lord Henry rose, his brow furrowed. “Are you suggesting we vote to impeach the current Grand King and allow the Second Ruler to assume the throne?”

“It would be the right thing to do,” Zaiper replied, turning to him. “The Concord of Crowns, Chapter Twelve, states an ultimate ruler is always required, as he is the cornerstone of the kingdom.” He paused, his voice gaining weight. “Our kingdom is defenseless against attacks. Unrest brews at our borders, and yet we are leaderless. We need steady hands to guide our people, to stand firm as we always have. But we have abandoned our sacred laws. It is time to return to them.”

Scattered voices of agreement and dissent rose. Some nodded gravely; others frowned deeply.

Then, a voice cut through the clamor like thunder. “There will be no need for that, Grand Lord Zaiper.”

Every head turned towards the grand entrance. Daemonikai stood there. Zaiper's burgeoning triumph evaporated. He looked… striking, magnetic. Fully dressed in his ceremonial attire, the Grand King's black robes bore a unique design, the gold embroidery gleaming in the light. His soldiers fanned out behind him as he approached the podium. The court rose as one, bowing their heads in unison. “Your Majesty.”

Daemonikai acknowledged them with a slight nod as he ascended to his throne.

“Your Grace,” Zaiper inclined his head reluctantly, clenching his fists.

“Rise.”

The court resumed their seats, tension still thick in the air, yet a palpable sense of relief was also present. Some were even smiling.

Zaiper fought to control his anger. This was unbearable. Could he never have a moment of triumph without it being ruined? Daemonikai should still be wallowing in misery. After what he had done to his woman, he should be too broken to appear in court. What was he doing here? Sweat gathered beneath Zaiper's robes.

Settling onto his throne, Daemonikai scanned the room before focusing on Zaiper. Zaiper couldn't decipher his expression.

“I wish to apologize for my absence from court these past days,” Daemonikai said, his voice calm and regal. “I was unwell, as many of you know. My bloodhost currently resides in the dungeon for her crimes against my female. Because of this, I have not been drinking from her as is customary. That was irresponsible of me, and I take full responsibility.”

The court listened in silence, captivated by his every word.

“There have been rumors,” Daemonikai’s tone grew colder, “that my mind is fractured. That I am feral again.” His gaze swept over the assembled lords and high lords. “I wish to dispel such nonsense. I was merely hungry. I am well-fed now and feel reborn. I am ready to resume my duties, if the court finds that acceptable.”

Zaiper's head swam. What in the devil's name was happening here? Glancing at Vladya, the male looked completely at ease. Ottai was openly beaming. Zaiper would not accept this.

“Your Grace,” he said, squaring his shoulders. “Pardon me, but… Many in Ravenshadow witnessed the incident two weeks ago. I, for one, was present.” Steel edged Zaiper's tone. “You were…”

“I was what? Mad?” Daemonikai remained calm, almost nonchalant, his head tilting slightly. “Do I look like a male devoid of reason? A male without a mind?”

“No, King Daemonikai, but—”

“But what, Lord Zaiper?”

Zaiper gritted his teeth. Daemonikai nodded firmly and looked away, dismissing him. “I thought so. Now, as I was saying—”

“We heard the princess’s screams,” Zaiper stated bluntly, raising his voice. “All through the night, her wails of agony echoed through the walls of Ravenshadow. It was clear you were hurting her.”

The silence that followed was deafening. The lightness in Daemonikai’s expression vanished. Tension gathered in his shoulders, and a flicker of pain crossed his eyes. The Grand King's hands clenched on the arms of his throne until his knuckles whitened. Yes, that’s more like it. The one accusation Daemonikai could not deny. The tension in Zaiper's chest unwound like a coiled spring.

“If you are as mentally fit as you claim to be, Your Grace,” Zaiper maintained a tone of concerned curiosity, “why would you harm the very female you once stood in this court to defend? A female you implored us to give a chance—one you desperately wanted to protect, one you were willing to relinquish your crown for?”

The court held its breath as Zaiper pressed on. “If you were in complete control, why would you inflict such suffering upon her? A pain so great her screams rang through the night until dawn?”

He paused, watching as whispers broke out again. They looked to their ultimate ruler for an answer. The Grand King had none. Zaiper almost smiled, but held back. Not yet. Not here. But he allowed himself a sliver of satisfaction, observing their anxious faces and their reactions. The best part was the uncomfortable silence as they waited for answers… and got none.

“And how sure are you, Grand Lord Zaiper, that her screams were cries of pain?”

It wasn’t Daemonikai who spoke. The voice was female. Zaiper turned. Emeriel stood by the door.