When we arrived at the High Court of Justice, the Chief Justice, who previously wouldn't have spared us a glance, came rushing out to greet us with a beaming smile. "Your Grace, what a surprise! You should have given me a heads-up. I would have sent someone to welcome you!"
I looked at the man beaming with false friendliness and couldn't help but scoff inwardly.
When you have no power, they ignore you, but once you hold influence, they scramble to ingratiate themselves.
Simon, however, maintained a serious facade, and his refusal to back down was evident. With a sly grin that narrowed his charming eyes, he quipped, "Lord Warrick, you're too kind. I'm not sure I can come back again after being sent away the last time!"
I followed closely behind, stifling a laugh at his boldness.
In front of me, Simon transformed from the obedient boy I knew at home into a little tyrant, wielding his sharp tongue like a weapon.
The moment he spoke, Lord Warrick's face twisted as if he had bitten into something sour. Yet, he could do nothing but force a smile. "Your Grace, you jest! It was merely a misunderstanding, and those under my command have been dealt with accordingly."
Hearing that, Simon scoffed, striding past him without a backward glance.
I followed, amused by his confidence.
With the title of heir, it seemed Simon's word was law, and Lord Warrick bent over backward to accommodate him.
After all, the current king was the Duke of Avon's brother, and he held a great deal of respect for the Duke. When word of Simon's tragic fate reached the throne, he was met with nothing but favor.
We entered the High Court of Justice without a hitch, but I soon realized things weren't as easy as I had hoped.
My father's case had been buried long ago, and finding any details now would be nearly impossible. Even if we asked Lord Warrick, he might not provide any truth.
Our best course of action was to search the prison where my father had been held for clues.
I exchanged a glance with Simon, who stepped closer and raised his voice intentionally. "Oh dear, I almost forgot why we came! It's about Eliza's father! Lord Warrick, would it be possible for us to visit the cell where my father was kept? Lady Eliza lost her father here, and visiting the place would ease her troubled heart."
We had a silent agreement, able to read each other's thoughts with just a look.