Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

The caltrop was placed into Caden's trembling hands. Examining it carefully, he realized there was no mistake-it was the very one Cecil had once played with.

"As they have treated you, so must you treat them in return," Grace whispered in his ear, sending a shudder down his spine.

In a panic, Caden flung the caltrop away.

Grace retrieved it herself, then took her son's small, icy hand in hers and led him away.

"The fact that I no longer hold authority in the harem has emboldened Queen Kylie," she said. "She believes she may act against you without consequences. But she is mistaken. I still have people loyal to me placed everywhere. The moment I uncovered their treachery, I had them brought here for questioning. You saw it with your own eyes, and you know the man-he is from Everspring Palace."

Caden's mind was in turmoil, torn between fear and distress.

Kylie wished him dead. But did his elder brother wish that as well? Had all their kindness merely been an elaborate pretense?

Caden returned to his chambers, dazed, barely registering his mother's soft- spoken words.

"Tomorrow, you shall do as follows..."

When she finished speaking, Caden was shaking uncontrollably.

"If you do not act, it is you who will die," Grace added, her voice sharpening.

hurled the caltrop away and threw

want to die, but I don't want to harm my brother either. I

not mean you must stand idly by while others seek to destroy

Uncle Rafael and Aunt Carissa? If they stand

is of no use," Grace replied gently, adjusting her approach. "They all know that your elder brother will soon be made crown prince.

mean for your brother to die. Once he is thrown from his horse, the

no longer be a threat to you, nor will he ever be in a position to harm you again. If you still hold brotherly affection for him, then so be it. You may grant him a life of wealth

lifting his tear-filled

filled with pity. "Of course, my dear. I am not a cruel woman. Taking a life should always be

she coaxed and reassured him. At last, Caden took the caltrop into his trembling

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coin. Four wickedly sharp pointed edges jutted out precise angles. When placed beneath a saddle, it would cause discomfort to the

clutched the caltrop as he lay in bed, unease written across his face It was only after drinking a cup of warm milk that he finally drifted to sleep Grace listened to the soft, steady rhythm of his breathing before exhaling

and left with her. Seated in

serene.

she said, "In the end, the blame lies with the queen dowager. Had she not arranged matters

becomes the crown prince and comes to know the taste of power, he