Chapter 99: Truths and Arrivals
Maximus entered the palace with a resolute expression. "Alert everyone that the emperor has been dethroned," he announced.
"What?!" The news sent shockwaves through the palace.
"Yes, there will be court sessions for the emperor soon," Maximus reiterated. The word quickly spread throughout the palace, and soon it reached every corner of the empire, leaving everyone in disbelief.
"Max!!! What are you doing? He’s your father," the empress rushed to her son when she heard the news.
"Mother, it doesn’t matter whether he’s my father or someone else. He committed a crime and must face the consequences," the crown prince remained unmoved.
"Don’t forget, Max, how you became the crown prince. If he weren’t the emperor, you wouldn’t have risen to second in line for the throne. It would have been Duke Alexavier, not you!" The empress attempted to sway him.
"I’d rather not be a crown prince than have the shame of parents like mine," he replied.
"One last thing, Mother!! I haven’t forgotten your reaction when I suggested someone else as the true heir to the throne. Be careful, unless you want to end up in the same position as your husband," he warned and walked away.
While leaving, he instructed, "Inform the duke that the criminal has been apprehended. He’s been eagerly waiting for this day."
***
"Duke, why did it take you so long to arrive? Where is the duchess? The state has been in turmoil for a month, not knowing what to do," the workers questioned as they saw the carriage pulling up in front of the mansion.
"The duchess’s parents came to visit, but not knowing her whereabouts, they left in sorrow," one of the workers explained.