**Chapter 7: "Royal Verdict"**

Heilberg, the Royal capital of Sergovia, unfolded before them like a tapestry of grandeur. The city, reminiscent of ancient Roman splendor, beckoned with towering structures and bustling streets. As they approached the Royal Palace, a fleet of Royal Knights stood in salute, their armor gleaming under the sunlight.

Marx, leading the way, guided them through the palace's grand corridors to the throne room. Semira excused herself with her maid, leaving Adrian, Elara, and Nicole to enter the opulent chamber. To their surprise, the room was filled with the assembled nobles of the kingdom.

The trio made their way to the front, where King Vorian sat upon the throne. Greetings were exchanged, and the atmosphere crackled with a mix of formality and anticipation. Marx, positioned at the king's side, commenced the explanation for the unprecedented gathering.

"Esteemed nobles of Sergovia," Marx began, "We find ourselves in the presence of individuals who played a pivotal role in the recent rescue of Princess Semira. Master Finn, a distinguished mage, and these courageous souls, Adrian and Elara."

As Marx narrated the events leading to Semira's rescue, the king's eyes, filled with gratitude, turned towards Adrian and Elara. The nobles, a mix of curiosity and admiration, absorbed the unfolding tale.

Upon the conclusion of Marx's account, King Vorian rose from his throne, expressing his thanks and admiration. "Adrian and Elara, your actions have demonstrated unparalleled valor and magic. Sergovia owes you a debt of gratitude."

The king proposed a reward for their heroic deeds, but a sudden interruption cut through the royal gratitude. The bold voice belonged to Jacob Flamesheart, the Royal Knights Captain, his skepticism echoing in the hallowed chamber.

"I disagree with that, my Lord!" Jacob declared, casting doubt on Adrian's abilities. He questioned the feasibility of a seven-year-old wielding magic, a sentiment that rippled through the gathering.

"Kids normally awaken at the age of 12," Jacob asserted, prompting an uneasy murmur among the nobles. Princess Semira, undeterred, entered the room at that moment, determined to lend her voice.

As Jacob Flamesheart voiced his skepticism regarding Adrian's magical abilities, the noble assembly fell into a hushed murmur. Princess Semira, undeterred by the doubts cast upon Adrian, stepped forward to confront the Royal Knights Captain.

."Captain Flamesheart, your doubts do little justice to the truth I witnessed," Semira asserted, her regal bearing undiminished. "Adrian's skills are genuine, and I stand as a witness to the magic he wielded to rescue me.

"Jacob crossed his arms, his expression skeptical. "Princess, forgive my bluntness, but magic is a complex art. It requires years of training, especially for someone so young."

Semira, undeterred, countered, "Complex, indeed, Captain. Yet, in the face of adversity, Adrian displayed a mastery that defies conventional understanding. Do not let preconceived notions cloud your judgment."

The nobles observed the exchange, torn between the loyalty to their captain and the weight of the princess's testimony.

Jacob, determined to uphold the standards of the Royal Knights, insisted on putting Adrian's abilities to the test."If what you're saying is true," Jacob challenged, "then let us settle this through a duel. I shall gauge the authenticity of his magical prowess firsthand."

Semira, her gaze unwavering, accepted the challenge. "Very well, Captain Flamesheart. But be prepared to witness the truth that lies beyond your doubts."

"I accept your duel," Adrian declared, his voice cutting through the brewing storm. Semira and Elara tried to dissuade him, but Adrian's resolve held firm."Shall we move to a proper place to fight?"

Adrian suggested, leading the way to the Knights training area. The gathering followed, the palace echoing with the anticipation of a duel that would determine the fate of Adrian's credibility in the enchanted realm of Arcanum.

As they entered the training area, the stage was set for a confrontation that would unravel the mysteries surrounding Adrian's magical prowess and confront the doubts that lingered within the heart of Sergovia's Royal Knights. The duel awaited, a clash that would shape the course of their enchanting journey.

The journey to the Knights training area was accompanied by a hushed debate among the nobles. Whispers of skepticism and curiosity mingled in the air as they followed Adrian's determined strides.

Semira walked beside Adrian, her voice low but resolute. "Be cautious, Adrian. This duel carries more weight than you might realize."

Adrian offered a confident smile. "I understand, Princess. Let's show them the truth."

As they reached the training area, the nobles formed a semi-circle, creating a makeshift arena. Jacob Flamesheart, with an air of skepticism, stood opposite Adrian, the tension thickening between them.

Marx, positioned at the edge of the training area, addressed the assembly. "Let the duel commence, but let it be a fair and honorable contest. We seek not discord but the truth."

The clash of opinions echoed in the arena as Adrian and Jacob prepared for the impending duel. The gazes of nobles, mages, and the king himself were fixed on the unfolding spectacle, awaiting the outcome that would resonate through the enchanted realm of Arcanum.