A Royal Decision

The King listened intently to Kurt's explanation, his expression slowly shifting from fury to a more contemplative state. He paced before his throne, his brow furrowed in thought. The weight of his decision hung heavy in the air. He had to balance justice with political expediency, the need to maintain order with the potential benefits this unusual boy might offer.

Finally, he stopped, his gaze sweeping across the tense faces of the court. He was about to speak when the third prince, Prince Valerian, who had been listening with keen interest, rose from his seat.

"Father," Prince Valerian said, his voice calm and measured, a stark contrast to the earlier drama. "May I offer a suggestion?"

The King turned to his youngest son, his expression guarded. "Proceed, Prince Valerian," he said, his tone indicating that he was willing to listen, but not easily swayed.

Prince Valerian stepped forward, his gaze fixed on his father, his words carefully chosen. "This boy," he began, gesturing towards Kurt, "has undoubtedly committed a breach of protocol. He deceived us, and that cannot be ignored. But consider the facts, Father."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "His actions, though misguided, do not seem to stem from malice or a desire to harm the kingdom. He sought knowledge, a thirst that, while unorthodox, is not inherently punishable. And let us not forget the circumstances that allowed him to reach the library. The security system, as our guards have confirmed, was inadequate. It failed to distinguish him from a noble, a flaw that lies with our own systems, not entirely with the boy."

He continued, his voice gaining conviction. "Furthermore, Your Majesty, we cannot deny his skill. He defeated two of our most powerful Astra wielders, our own sons, with a speed and precision that is remarkable. Such talent is rare, Your Majesty. It could be useful to our kingdom."

A murmur of agreement rippled through some sections of the court, particularly among those who valued strength and power above tradition. The King listened, his expression thoughtful. He saw the logic in his son's words. He was a pragmatic ruler, and the potential benefits of having such a powerful individual on his side were not lost on him.

After a long moment of deliberation, the King nodded slowly. "There is merit in your suggestion, Prince Valerian," he said, his voice regaining its usual authority. "While this boy has certainly earned our suspicion, he has also demonstrated an extraordinary ability that we cannot ignore. To punish him severely would be a waste."

He turned to Kurt, his gaze still sharp but now tinged with a grudging respect. "You have broken our laws, boy. But you have also shown extraordinary ability. Therefore, I will offer you a compromise."