Emilia found her way toward the king's court and informed the servants to announce her arrival.
The case was being tried at an open court, and the King sat with all the officials and scholars standing before him while the Markhams stayed on their knees.
The servant stepped forward quickly, announcing Emilia's presence, and everyone was surprised to see her.
They had all thought she was being confined to her room.
"All rise for Her Majesty, Queen Emilia Benetton."
The immense doors of the throne hall swung open.
Emilia stepped inside.
Despite their dissatisfaction, all the officials bowed.
"Your Majesty,"
they greeted as she stepped forward.
Silk pooled at her feet in soft, regal folds, the deep royal blue of her gown catching the light of hundreds of burning braziers.
She lifted her chin as she stepped right in front of Lucas and bowed to him.
Then she lifted her head to stare at the rows of ministers, scholars, nobles, and guards lining both sides of the hall.
