"Your Majesty, what Prince Walden said is merely his own personal conjecture," interjected Franklin dismissively. "He has no evidence on his side. On the other hand, we do have real, tangible evidence of the collusion between Howard and Kevin." Indeed, these words were blunt but true. Walden Jun could say whatever he wanted, but what could he really do when he had nothing but words?


    But Walden Jun went on, undaunted. He knew what he was getting himself into. "Father, I may not have any evidence, but the idea that Howard could be capable of this treachery is preposterous. If he really was in league with Uncle Kevin, then why didn''t he try to escape when the palace guards came to arrest him? Instead, he gave himself up meekly. He is innocent."


    At this, Maxwell spoke up. "Your Majesty, even if this could be proven, to release Howard at this poi


    collusion with Kevin were found in your room. That is enough to convict you of treason. However, Walden vouched for you. He believes that you have been framed, and he begged that I give you a chance to prove your innocence. So this is your chance. Choose your next words carefully, or else you will be beheaded as a traitor."


    Howard gave Walden an ambiguous glance. "Your Majesty, someone framed me by forging the letters you mentioned, and the reason for it is clear. Whoever did it wanted to prevent me from going to the frontier. I''m very familiar with the geography of the north domain, so I was planning to go there to help Prince Matthew in the war. My plans were not secret, and I did speak of them to at least one individual not long ago. But before I could apply for your permission, the border sent over the evidence of my so-called treason."