The emperor's expression revealed deep disappointment, his aura exuding an intimidating presence. I couldn't help but reflect, Father, it's clear that the teachings I've imparted to you have made a lasting impression.

"Before I pronounce my judgment on the accused, I wish to hear from the two princes who have been affected, to share their thoughts on the verdict."

I didn't hesitate to respond, "My only wish was to end the engagement with Alfonso. I suggest confining him to the temple for three months. Despite everything, he remains significant in my life. I cannot advocate for an execution." However, in truth, I see Alfonso as a means to control his father, the Duke. Alfonso, his father's favored son, groomed to inherit the duchy.

Unfortunately, Duke Adinerado married off his only capable daughter, Lucia, to a wealthy count in France. In this alternate reality, the French Revolution will still unfold. In one of the possible outcomes, Lucia’s descendants, fleeing to Great Britain, will advance pharmaceutical knowledge, ultimately creating a new medicine for a rare Mana disorder. Establishing a rapport with Lucia is imperative, as her descendants possess talents pivotal to rebuilding the Empire.

"The most crucial decision lies with my brother, the crown prince, Your Majesty, considering deceit and theft were also part of his case."

The court likely perceives him as the weak prince prone to naive decisions. Yet, as someone genuinely concerned for the empire and its people, he endured ridicule from nearly all the nobles. He's a character I deeply admire in this narrative. Being your brother in this reincarnation of mine is an honor. I vow to empower you, ensuring you never suffer humiliation again. Eventually, they'll all regret their disparaging remarks.

The crown prince spoke next. "Send Isabella and her conspirators to The Bathalan Temple in the lost city."

Shock rippled through the court; they understood it as a death sentence, for no one ever returned from the lost city. The crown prince's stern tone hinted at his lack of mercy, instilling fear among those who might oppose him. With the temple supporting us, we're becoming a formidable force.

"As my brother requested, annul the engagement and send Alfonso to the temple under Pope Alon's guidance. He must have no contact beyond the temple, including the Adinerado estate."

Duke Adinerado's expression soured, but he had no recourse. Like a hyena, once he loses control over the Imperial family, his power and influence will wane. He begrudgingly accepted his son's punishment, prioritizing his nobility and honor.

The Emperor addressed both plaintiffs and defendants, delivering the verdict.

"With the authority vested in me, I pronounce the defendants guilty as charged. The engagements of the future crown princess, Isabella Rosas, to Crown Prince Gavino Benevolencia, and the 2nd prince, Gonzalo Benevolencia, to Alfonso Adinerado, are hereby annulled. Isabella and her family will be sent to a Bathalan temple in the lost city under the supervision of Priest Sinag, currently confined in the Holy temple in the city of Bulan. House Rosas will lose its nobility, living as commoners henceforth. Their county residence and assets will be transferred to the crown prince. Alfonso Adinerado will undergo three months of monk training under Pope Alon's supervision, with the duration subject to the Pope's discretion. This ruling is final; no objections will be entertained."

Shockwaves reverberated through the court. They anticipated a lenient sentence, but the Emperor's decree, stripping House Rosas of its nobility, entrusting Alfonso's fate entirely to the Pope, and exiling Priest Sinag along with Isabella and her parents to the lost city, revealed a new, resolute stance. 

Yet, amidst this, I managed to save the abused eldest son of Count Rosas. Typically discarded for his frailty, he possesses a keen ability to gather information, aiding the underprivileged in the slums. He has formed alliances among them, foreseeing his family's potential betrayal. I aim to support him in establishing his guild, one that will not only serve as a source of information but also provide employment to the slum dwellers through a delivery service.

"Your Majesty, may I interject?" I spoke.

"Yes, 2nd Prince Gonzalo."

"I propose enlisting Count Rosas's eldest son to work under me. His commendable efforts in aiding the slum dwellers have not gone unnoticed. Perhaps we could grant him a territory and the title of a baronet to preserve his noble status? If he proves valuable to the empire and continues to demonstrate his worth, we can elevate him to a viscount, or perhaps even a count, in due time."

The eldest son of House Rosas, tearful over the impending loss of his people's livelihoods, looked to me, bewildered.

Yes, Isidoro, welcome to Team Benevolencia.