Emmaline begs for Caroline's protection

Emmaline moved forward, stepping between the Bishop and Caroline, blocking his view, the panic growing within her chest no longer allowing time to think.

"Please, Sir, I'm certain that there has been a mistake. I have not read the documents, but there must have been a misreading! I'm certain that if you were to allow Caroline to explain, she could make it all quite clear, easily!" Emmaline gestured emphatically with her hands, a bit of wine sloshing out of the glass "Or... or, that failing, perhaps I might be able to speak with her. If she does indeed hold heretical beliefs, I'm certain I could convince her of her wrongdoing, then she could make amends of her misdeeds!"

"I'm sure we don't need to act rashly, or be so hasty as to take her into custody this very instant!" Emmaline found herself looking at the Bishop's companions, foolishly searching for some sort of comfort or support, which they, of course, did not provide. Instead, they watched the bishop, as if just waiting for his signal to go and seize her sister. The bishop meanwhile, simply waited patiently for her to finish, his face as calm as ever.

"I have no doubt that lady Caroline would attempt to make matters clear. My companions would give her every assistance in clarifying the matter. Unfortunately, such assistance often leaves the subject in rather...delicate condition. As to making amends, that is what confession, trial, sentencing....and execution is for. Let me remind you of your own words on this matter, not a few moments ago. 'No exceptions,' you said when I asked your advice. Now that you know the identity of the accused, it seems that you wish an exception to be made. This is hardly in accordance with established procedure." His words were gentle, almost kindly, but there was no doubting the steel in his voice.

"Unless you are suggesting that you wish to make an appeal for special treatment as a friend of the accused? Is that your intent my lady?"

***

This chapter was co-authored by Shandy (https://chyoa.com/user/Shandy)-- Shandy is the author of Fox in the Henhouse and The Peril's of Lisa-- please check out his stuff! :)