Chapter 158: The Accusation of the Knight
"Your Highness," a guard informed the Crown Prince, "someone is at the palace entrance, demanding to see you."
"Is there a problem?" the Crown Prince inquired.
"Yes, Your Highness," the guard replied. "The man insists on entering despite our attempts to stop him. He possesses exceptional strength, overpowering the guards."
"He wishes to meet you in an audience with all the higher authorities, including the Duke, Duchess, and Princess," the guard continued. "Did he mention his reason for seeking an audience?"
"No, Your Highness," the guard admitted. "He only repeats his desire to speak before everyone."
The Crown Prince rose from his throne. "Very well, allow him in and summon the authorities for the audience." He strode towards the audience hall and took his seat, surrounded by the court.
"Your Highness, is this audience necessary?" a Minister inquired.
"Indeed," the Crown Prince declared. "Someone has arrived with a message he desires to share publicly."
"May we inquire about his identity?" the Minister asked.
"I’m afraid I don’t know," the Crown Prince admitted. "When the individual arrives, we’ll hear their reasons firsthand." He spoke with a firm, yet courteous, tone, asserting his authority.
"Your Highness, the man seeking the audience has arrived," a guard announced, pushing forward an elderly man. Despite his age, resembling the Emperor in years, his arms bore the mark of a seasoned knight.
"You may leave," the Crown Prince said, then turned to the old man. "Tell us, what brings you here? Why the public audience, the demand for the presence of the court? Do you fear our disapproval?"