Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

As soon as Connor said those words, the mood in the room shifted.

Ryan stood beside Carissa, awkwardly fidgeting with the hem of his garment. There was indeed a scent about him. Every time he returned home, he had to soak in the medicinal bath Sebastian prepared. He had grown accustomed to the smell, and so he thought it had faded. A quiet feeling of shame rose within him. When he had been a beggar, the most frequent insult he had heard was, "You stink! Get away!"

Carissa squeezed his small hand, brushing her other hand across his cheek. "I like the fragrance of the medicine."

Ryan lifted his eyes, finding solace in his aunt's warm gaze.

Right-wasn't it just a few remarks? Was he really so fragile that he couldn't handle that?

He smiled at her. He didn't mind what others said.

Kylie noticed Victoria's expression darkening and quickly stood up, pulling Connor over with a stern look. "Who taught you to speak like that? Apologize to Lord Ryan."

Connor raised his chin. "I won't apologize to a beggar."

As soon as those words left his mouth, he felt as though the ground had vanished beneath him. Before he could react, two sharp slaps landed on his backside, making him wail in pain. "Hold back those tears!" Rafael snapped, gripping him firmly.

No matter how spoiled Connor was, he was still just a seven-year-old child. Rafael's stern demeanor was too much for him to bear.

soft whimpers. His large eyes filled with tears as he looked helplessly at Kylie, silently pleading

darkened, her expression hardening. "Apologize, or I'll have

calmly

ran off without even bowing to Victoria before leaving. Kylie quickly stood. "Mother, please calm down. I'll go teach him

slight nod. "Go

"Your Majesty, please

briefly to Carissa's face, and she forced a smile. "Please, stay seated. When you have the time another day, come and visit me." "Yes,

a look at Rafael. The coldness in his eyes almost made

immediately rushed

tightly,

both concern and anger. If

for her sister

taught

herself.

him properly, she should let my sister raise him. Letting him turn out this spoiled-how is he ever going to be fit to be the crown prince?" Helen snapped. Victoria glared at her

walked