The War God Alpha's Arranged Bride (Evelyn and Alexander) novel Chapter 202

**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 202: The Final Trial**

Inquisition.

That was the word on everyone’s lips, the pulse of the public thrumming with a mix of anticipation and dread. The region still reeled from the shocking announcement that Alexander had declared war against the Royal Family. Unlike the previous trials held within the austere walls of the justice building, Alexander had chosen to conduct this trial within the very heart of the palace itself, an audacious move that spoke volumes.

The doors were flung wide open, allowing anyone who wished to enter and witness history unfold.

Alexander and Evelyn were adamant about this decision.

“Total transparency,” she had insisted, her voice firm yet soothing. “The people need to see you as a new kind of monarch, one who embodies openness and honesty. They must feel they can trust you.”

Oliver, always the pragmatic voice, chimed in, “While your actions may have been drastic, they must understand that it was all for the public’s good.”

Alexander rolled his eyes, a mix of frustration and humor bubbling beneath the surface. “More like I stormed the palace to rescue my wife and was ready to take down the bastard who dared to threaten her,” he muttered under his breath, the weight of his emotions evident.

Evelyn shot him a disapproving look, her brow furrowing. “Alexander, please. We have to find a way to present you in the best possible light. No matter how you slice it, you’re the one who led the rebellion and took the throne.”

“She’s right, sir. What we need is the people’s understanding and trust,” Oliver reiterated, his gaze steady and unwavering.

It wasn’t that Alexander was indifferent to public opinion; rather, his focus was laser-sharp on dismantling the web of illegal trades and corrupt dealings that Gregory had spun around the region. The stench of corruption had become unbearable, and he was determined to cleanse it. Yet, he couldn’t ignore the wisdom in Evelyn and Oliver’s words.

Without the backing of the people, chaos would reign, and the last thing he wanted was to plunge the region into anarchy.

“Fine, fine,” he relented, a hint of exasperation in his tone. “You’re right. I need to show them I’m not just another treacherous king with a thirst for power.”

Today marked a pivotal moment when the truth behind the shadows of their government would finally be brought to light, a revelation that would shake the very foundations of their society.

The palace was a cacophony of voices, a sea of eager faces pressed together, each spectator jostling for a better view. If there was even the slightest inch of space, it was quickly filled by another curious onlooker. Traditionally, such hearings were presided over by the King himself. However, this time, Alexander had summoned a judge to oversee the case, a move that signified a shift in power dynamics.

In this historic moment, the judge, an elderly man with a gravitas that commanded respect, took his place upon the throne. Alexander stood before him, a stark contrast to the opulence surrounding them, his heart pounding with a mix of anxiety and determination. Just a mere ten feet away, Gregory sat, stripped of his royal garb and dressed like any other citizen, a deliberate choice that underscored his fall from grace.

“I must admit, Alexander, your actions have taken me by surprise,” the judge began, his voice steady yet curious.

Alexander nodded curtly, his jaw set. “Your Honor, I am prepared to take full responsibility for my actions. Yes, they were impulsive, but they were not without justification.”

The room fell silent, every ear tuned in to the unfolding drama.

“For far too long, the Royal Family has ruled over this land with an iron fist, crafting laws that bind the citizens while conveniently exempting themselves. Your so-called King is nothing more than a puppet master in the underground trade that has plagued our region,” he declared, his voice rising with conviction.

Gasps rippled through the crowd, a wave of disbelief and anger washing over them.

Oliver stepped forward, his demeanor resolute, and handed a hefty file of evidence to the judge. “Weapons, drugs, jewelry, and luxury items—all of it has been trafficked illegally to and from our region. Gregory has imposed exorbitant taxes on basic necessities, pocketing the profits for himself.”

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