The grand hall of the Dukedom of Rosetta was unusually silent. Sunlight spilled through tall windows, casting long beams on the polished marble floor. Servants moved quietly, their faces tense. On a chaise near the center, Young Louis lay pale and shivering, a thin sheen of sweat on his forehead, while the court physician busied himself with potions and poultices.
Alex's chest tightened. He had feared rumors and schemes, but he had never imagined his stepmother would endanger Young Louis's life.
Kael stood firmly beside him, eyes sharp, every muscle tense. "Whatever this is, we'll uncover it," he whispered, his loyalty unyielding.
Sir Luke, ever the steadfast guardian and father figure, placed a steady hand on Alex's shoulder. "Stay calm, young lord. Justice will reveal the truth. We will protect both you and him."
The Duke of Rosetta entered, his expression a storm of concern and confusion. "Alex… I… I don't know what to believe. Your stepmother claims you… poisoned Young Louis."
Alex's jaw tightened. "Father, I would never—never harm Young Louis. You know me. She is the only one with motive. This is her doing."
Kael stepped forward, voice firm. " Duke Henry, I saw a maid in her chamber earlier. She witnessed the Duchess giving Young Louis a substance. The antidote is hidden in her quarters."
The Duke's eyes widened. "What?"
Sir Luke nodded gravely. "The truth will speak for itself, my lord."
With swift command, the Duke ordered his guards to search the Duchess's chambers. Moments later, a vial of poison and a small antidote were recovered. The room smelled faintly of herbs and bitter alchemy, unmistakable evidence of malice.
The Duchess tried to protest, but the Duke's voice cut through, resolute. "Your schemes have endangered my son and attempted to frame another. You will leave this Dukedom immediately, stripped of all privileges, and confined to the countryside estate. Any further interference will be punished severely."
Young Louis, now stabilizing under the physician's care, opened his eyes and whispered weakly, "Alex… you saved me?"
Alex knelt beside him, brushing a lock of hair from his brother's forehead. "Of course, little one. You're my brother. Nothing will ever harm you while I'm here."
The Duke stepped closer, his expression softening. "Alex… I owe you more than words. I neglected you because… because of your resemblance to your late mother. I see now how wrong I was. From this day forward, I will support both my sons fully, without neglect or favor."
Alex met his father's gaze steadily. "Father… if I were in your position, I would have done the same. You acted to protect your children. I forgive you."
Kael and Sir Luke exchanged glances, a silent acknowledgment of loyalty, courage, and trust. The Duchess's treachery had been neutralized. The family, though shaken, was now stronger, more aware, and united.
As the sun dipped lower, casting a warm glow over the grand hall, Alex held Young Louis's hand gently, a promise unspoken but deeply felt: he would protect his family, no matter the cost.