Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has gone on trial in Oslo facing 38 charges including rape, bodily harm, threats, and drug offenses. The trial, which began amid intense media scrutiny, is expected to last seven weeks. Høiby has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape, denying allegations that the assaults occurred when the victims were incapacitated. He admitted to some charges such as bodily harm and violating restraining orders but denied others. The case is linked to a December 2018 incident and ongoing allegations involving violence, threats, and non-consensual filming. Høiby was detained for further charges just before the trial, including threats with a knife. Heavy court restrictions are in place, and the royal family will not attend, maintaining distance from the proceedings. The trial coincides with revelations of extensive email exchanges between the crown princess and Jeffrey Epstein, which have damaged her reputation. Norwegian officials, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, acknowledged her poor judgment in her contacts with Epstein. Public opinion remains largely supportive of the royal family, but the scandal has sparked debate about the monarchy's future. The case has also raised questions about the royal family's handling of personal matters and its international reputation.