What I've learned from the Army is time management, emphasizing productivity and efficiency in one's duties. However, my perfectionist tendencies complicate matters. Upon strategizing, I generate four or more potential solutions, insisting that one must prevail. Duke Lucio Adinerado has already forwarded a meeting request to my father, who, instead, responded with a summons for an immediate trial involving House Adinerado and House of Rosas. 

The letter specifies that evidence of adultery and concubinage is in the possession of the imperial family and the temple. In cases where the temple intervenes, the judicial court is rendered powerless. In this critical period, religion plays a significant role. Nevertheless, as I purge the Empire of corruption, I plan to separate religion and government, ensuring that religion doesn't unduly influence the government and its laws. I envision transformative plans for the Holy City of Bulan, including teaching individuals with healing powers modern medicine from the 21st century and establishing the first-ever modern medical school in the country. These plans hinge on accruing more power before initiating the modernization process.

The Emperor's decision shocks the court. The compassionate Emperor, who had placed great trust in the Ducal houses, has finally made a decision that will create a rift between him and the family. Most nobles predict an unfavorable outcome for the imperial family, as the temple aligns with the Honestos, part of the six Ducal families.

"Esteban, what happened with the rumors I instructed you to spread? Is the Imperial army fulfilling its duties?"

"Yes, Your Highness, it's spreading like wildfire."

"Good. I need to speak with you personally later, Esteban. I have a task for you that only you can handle."

"I'm always at your service, Your Highness."

And the day of the trial arrives. The imperial court is fully packed, with nobles attending as if a famous singer were performing in the Grand Concert Hall. However, their true intention is gossip and entertainment.

"Hear ye, hear ye. The trial begins."

Lucio Adinerado stands up.

"Before the trial begins, I implore His Majesty to be fair in his judgment because the two princes are involved. I request fairness."

Pope Alon interjects abruptly.

"Isn't it rude to stand up without excusing yourself? You're not even a part of the court. The decision will be based on the evidence, Duke Adinerado."

The revelation left the people in shock, as their assumption that the temple supported the Ducal houses was shattered. Pope Alon made it abundantly clear that he did not align with the Adinerados. The Temple wielded significant power, even in conjunction with the Ducal houses.

The Holy City had the potential to break free from the Empire's influence. Bathalan Religion, practiced in various regions of Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the southern part of China, and the northern part of Japan, had evolved uniquely in this parallel version of Earth. The Bathalan religion gained prominence in islands of the New Holland continent, destined to become Oceania. 

Once, the Inhabitants of the Holy City were referred to as "Babaylans" (shamans), they were trained servants of the now-defunct noble house, The House of Tala, known as God's messengers. They were educated in communicating with the spirits of nature and the deceased, mastering the art of serving as mediums for the gods to convey oracles to the people. Proficient in divination, healing, and herbalism, they remained steadfastly devoted to Bathala, his teachings, and his oracles. Their inherent strength rendered them indifferent to the displeasure of the Ducal houses.

"Very well then, let us begin the trial. May I call in the complainant and the defendants to face Pope Alon as you pledge a holy oath contract?" the Emperor proceeds.

"During the trial, if you aren't honest in what you say, the holy oath contract will break, and severe punishment will be given," the Emperor continues. The holy oath contract seems akin to a lie detector test, with the Emperor handling punishments. 

Fear becomes increasingly visible on Alfonso and Isabella's faces.