Chapter 267 - Questioning
The gathered assembly’s attention was split between Scarlett and the central table, hushed murmurs rippling through the crowd. Scarlett’s eyes narrowed into a withering glare aimed at the baroness who’d dared to call her out, though the woman pretended not to notice.
Presumably, Marquis Delmon had set her up for this. That the man still had it out for Scarlett was hardly surprising, but this maneuver felt incredibly shortsighted. Unless he foolishly expected her to literally be apprehended on the spot over whatever trumped-up allegations they’d mustered—an outcome that seemed very unlikely—this would blow up in his face.
If anything, Scarlett would make sure of that.
“Perhaps we should allow these two to explain their actions to those assembled here?” Count Hayden’s voice cut through the low hum of the crowd, his gaze sweeping the chamber. “Wouldn’t you all agree?”
A smattering of voices murmured their assent, though most remained silent, their eyes shifting towards Duke Valentino.
“Your Majesty,” Count Hayden addressed the emperor with a respectful bow, “would you permit us to inquire further with these nobles?”
The emperor, seated on his throne, leaned forward slightly, his elbow on the armrest as he regarded the count with an appraising look. After a pensive moment, he gave a light nod. “Duke Valentino, Baroness Hartford. You may speak and present your perspectives.”
A hush fell over the chamber. Duke Valentino rose from his seat, his movements stiff and deliberate as he used his cane to limp towards a small raised platform opposite the throne. Expectant eyes then shifted to Scarlett.
She threw a glance to her left, where Duchess Valentino and Lady Withersworth sat. The duchess’ worry was clear, her brow creased in concern, but Lady Withersworth emanated her usual unruffled calm, offering Scarlett an enigmatic smile. “I’m sure you can acquit yourself admirably, dear. Don’t fret. I’ve made note of those who spoke out.”
There was a glint of something dangerous lurking behind that smile, a fact Scarlett felt appreciative of. With a curt nod, she rose and began descending to the main floor, acutely aware of the weight of countless stares tracking her every move. Instead of unnerving her, though, they just served to further stoke the flames inside.
Soon, she joined Duke Valentino on the platform before the central table. They exchanged brief looks but said nothing. Scarlett couldn’t help but feel that if he’d wanted to keep the existence of the Tribe’s Enclave under wraps for now, he should have done a better job of not getting her pulled into this mess.
Opposite them, on the other end of the central table, the emperor’s silent gaze remained fixed on them, compelling Scarlett to instinctively incline her head slightly in a subtle gesture of respect.