"No... We can detect the presence of divinity in her! She has holy powers!" He had to salvage this. He can't... He can't let the Empire win. His mind was a mess. Who did he fear more? Being taken away as a prisoner or the fact that he let down Edward and has to deal with those consequences.
Either way, after being pushed into the spotlight, he needed to resolve this issue as soon as possible, they cannot afford to lose. He dare not look at Edward at this moment.
The priests nodded. It was clear as day, they could sense the holy powers on her. The Marquess immediately got up and stepped forth.
"Your orb did not detect the holy power you speak of on my daughter. I request you to tread carefully." It was plain and straightforward, he was threatening them. If they dared to try anything, he was more than happy to show off his prowess.
Time to stretch his muscles.