Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

There seemed to be no end to the debate over appointing a crown prince. Nearly every morning court session saw officials raising the matter.

Finally, on the 18th of December, Salvador made an announcement-he had already chosen a crown prince. However, as the prince was still young, the decision would not be made public just yet. Instead, he had written an edict and secured it high upon a beam in the royal chapel.

During a court session, he declared that he alone knew who the crown prince was. According to him, he had not disclosed the decision to anyone, not even to Jeremiah or Rafael. With that, Salvador spared them from further scrutiny.

However, it was no great mystery.

Connor had long since abandoned his former laziness and arrogance, becoming diligent and eager to learn. His temperament had also grown more refined. Furthermore, Ryan, the future Duke of Northwatch, was his study partner. With all those facts, many believed it was all but certain that Connor was the chosen crown prince.

The reasoning was sound.

Not only was Connor Salvador's firstborn son with the queen, he had also shed his past shortcomings and was being personally guided by Victoria. Though Caden also enjoyed the queen dowager's protection, his circumstances were different. Connor no longer returned to Everspring Palace, while Caden was now permitted to return to his mother's residence.

Among the court officials, many suspected that Malcolm must know the truth. As a result, his household quickly became overwhelmed by visitors, with streams of guests arriving to pay their respects and offer their congratulations. Lavish gifts poured in, including rare treasures from all corners of the empire.

joy, only deep unease. After all, the more prominent one was, the more likely they were to attract trouble

truly been named crown prince, then Salvador's next step would undoubtedly be to weaken the influence of the

one of them beyond measure. Should Salvador ever

and submitted a request for leave. That way, he could justifiably turn away

delegate his ministerial duties in the meantime. Besides, with the new year approaching, court sessions would soon be suspended

a life of leisure at home, shutting himself away from the affairs of the outside

known, to allow the

of building alliances for Connor. It wasn't the

count on them, and I still can't count on them now! Do they not wish for my son and me to prosper?

with her, explaining, "Your Majesty, Lord Quinton's actions do have merit. With the crown prince now decided, Lord Quinton's

Connor may be

of his in-laws' influence, and will make a move against them should they make themselves too visible. Even if it were not His Majesty's desire, he would still act if Lord Quinton's household continues to

darkened. "They fear this, then fear that what good does fear do? If half the court were under our influence, would His Majesty dare act against us so easily? It's precisely because our

snapped, "Instead of