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.

but since you are my brother and Mother is concerned, I must ask are you considering taking a concubine?"

health is in pretty poor shape. I am still under Sebastian's care. Even managing one wife is somewhat overwhelming, and I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to handle the additional burden of a

strong and robust. How could you be overwhelmed?

to expand your lineage. It's only

don't they?"

glancing at Rafael. "As a member of the royal family, it is also your responsibility to ensure

many entanglements. With the current arrangement-having a wife and with my mother now out of the palace I find

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lost in thought. After a moment, he said, "Let's stop for now. Return to your duties. I hear there is a major case awaiting review at

belme

replied. "A woman killed twelve members of her husband's family, including her own children. The case occurred in Brightmoor District. The local governor has sentenced her to

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

"I will review the case files and make a