IMDD CHAPTER 161 [SEASON II] (Patreon)

Murmurs of agreement ripple through the crowd, some nobles nodding in obvious support of the king's words. The room grows colder, the atmosphere heavy with judgment.

From the shadows, the king’s official mistress, lady Jessia, an alluring and manipulative woman, emerged. A sly smile curled on her lips as she watched the scene unfold.

“A queen without the ability to bear an heir is worthless, you know that, Evangeline.” Nicholas repeated with an even louder voice.

And Evangeline simply sat there, holding the king’s gaze. Her blue orbs losing its final shine as anguish filled the once bright and full of life eyes of hers.

“Furthermore,” the king looked at the crowd again, clearly not done yet. “I have recently uncovered a heinous plot. Queen Evangeline, in her jealousy and desperation, attempted to murder the innocent child, the King’s child, growing within my official mistress’ womb.”

The gasps that followed are louder, the whispers more frenzied. And just like that, everyone quickly casted shocked and judgmental glances at the Queen they all adored just few seconds ago.

Evangeline sprung up, her voice trembling, but resolute. “I swear upon my honor that these accusations are false! I would never harm an innocent life.”

But her words fall on deaf ears, drowned out by the weight of public opinion and the power of the king's influence. The room remains silent as she searches the faces of the gathered courtiers, desperate for support, for someone to believe her.

However, whispers of agreement and nodding heads meet her gaze. The courtiers, swayed by the king's words and the traditional belief that a queen's primary duty is to bear heirs, turn their backs on her. Just like that.

“The evidence is irrefutable, Evangeline. You stand accused, and the court has ruled against you. Your exile is just.” The king declared.

Queen Evangeline’s eyes stretched and her frame began to shake. But before anyone would notice her trembling, she straightened her posture, refusing to show weakness, and took a final look at everyone before her.

“I stand firm in my innocence and the belief that truth shall prevail. And know this, my people, the light of justice will shine upon those who have been deceived.” Her voice resonated through the grand state ballroom, carrying a strength that belies the pain in her heart. “A queen's worth is not solely measured by the ability to bear an heir. My intelligence, my compassion, and my love for this kingdom have been my steadfast companions throughout my reign. I have devoted myself to the betterment of our people, and all of you saw all that with your own two eyes.”

She lifted her chin up, looking at them with unwavering resolve. “I will accept my exile, for I am not one to cower in the face of adversity. But mark my words, my people — true greatness and worth is not determined solely by the fruit of one's womb.”

The courtiers exchange glances and the once unified court begins to fragment, with whispers of dissent swirling throughout the grand ballroom. But still, no one dared to step forward to say anything to support the queen.

Flashing a faint, pained smile, Evangeline then took one last look at her husband. “And as for you, my husband,” she whispered. “Know that truth will stand against you. May you suffer the consequences of your actions.”

With dignity intact, she turns away and walks out of the ballroom, her footsteps echoing against the cold marble floors as the entire hall fall into a heavy silence.