Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

A few days later, after court had adjourned, Salvador retained Rafael for a private conversation. Ignoring the stack of documents left untouched, Salvador signaled to Derek to set up the chessboard.

"It's been a while since we last played chess together," he remarked.

Rafael adjusted his belt, and sat down comfortably. "After days of poring over case files until my head felt like it was spinning, it's a blessing to have a reprieve. I'm deeply grateful for the leniency, Your Majesty." Salvador watched Rafael's actions with a furrowed brow. "You're still clinging to those old military habits? How rude. You are now head of the Supreme Court and a high-ranking member of the court. Remember to maintain your dignity and composure."

"Why worry about appearances in front of my own brother?" Rafael replied with a bright grin.

"Do you act so freely in front of your princess consort as well?" Salvador said, placing a white piece on the board with a deliberate motion.

Rafael held a black piece, and his expression was inscrutable. "In front of my own princess consort, I would be even more unrestrained."

Salvador studied him with a smile on his lips. "I've heard that someone expressed interest in becoming your concubine at Aunt Helen's birthday banquet?"

"That such rumors even reach your ears must be an offense, Your Majesty," Rafael said, placing a black piece on the board.

disregard idle gossip, but since you are my brother and Mother is

poor shape. I am still under Sebastian's care. Even managing one wife is somewhat overwhelming, and

a disapproving look. "Nonsense. You are a trained soldier, strong and robust. How could you be overwhelmed? Are you

as king, you have the duty to expand your lineage. It's only natural to have more

don't they?"

at Rafael. "As a member of

With the current arrangement-having a wife and with my mother now out of the palace I find that too many concerns are rather

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After a moment, he said, "Let's stop for now. Return

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her own children. The case occurred in Brightmoor District. The local governor has sentenced her to death by execution, which the Ministry of Justice has approved. I have yet to finish reviewing

woman should not merely face death by execution. She deserves immediate

review the case files and make a fair