In the grand hall, Queen Aerwyna stood tall, her presence commanding attention as she summoned Denzel to her side. With a firm yet gentle push, she positioned him strategically before her court of guards who had assembled promptly at her call.
"Everyone here will be served justice whether it be merman or any imprisoned human," she addressed them with a steely tone, her eyes scanning each face for any sign of guilt or hesitation. "When I told you to take him in dungeons did I tell you to beat him."
A tense silence hung in the air as the guards exchanged uneasy glances, none daring to meet the Queen's gaze directly. General guard and the commander stepped infront of her and bowed their heads with shame, "forgive us, your majesty; for our people has betrayed you."
"Rise and identify him," Aerwyna demanded, her voice now cutting through the quiet hall. "Who among you dares to defy my command and bring harm to one under my protection?"