Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

At dawn, Connor and Ryan rose with high spirits, brimming with confidence.

In stark contrast, Caden appeared weary and drained, his dark circles more pronounced than ever after having been tormented throughout the night.

Nightmare after nightmare had plagued him. One had consisted of visions of his own severed head rolling across the floor, pools of blood staining the ground. In another dream, Connor lay before him with both legs shattered, his agonized screams echoing through the darkness. He also dreamed of the tortured chamberlain, the man's words playing over and over in his mind.

Whether in sleep or while awake, terror clung to Caden, leaving him trembling uncontrollably.

Grace arrived with Lyra to personally dress him. As she helped him into his formal attire, she spoke softly, coaxing him and reminding him of what had to be done today. She soothed his nerves, assuring him that Connor would not die.

As she saw Caden's expression ease, she pressed on, painting a grand vision of power for him. With it, he could bring prosperity to Starhaven, making his reign a golden age that would be remembered for centuries.

Grace knew her son better than anyone. He was not without ambition, far from it in fact. But Victoria had been deliberately drawing the brothers closer by arranging for them to study, train, and play together-all to cultivate their brotherly bond.

Children were sentimental creatures and easily swayed by companionship. However, these feelings were trivial indulgences. If Caden lost sight of his future because of such things, the cost would be far too great.

With both Grace and Lyra urging him on, his resolve began to solidify. The doubt faded from his eyes, replaced by a steely determination.

and ready, they

-

in the sacrificial rites. By the time the royal concubines, princes, and princesses arrived, the ceremony

palace. Salvador was in excellent spirits today. During the ceremony, he even made a wish-for a few more

would be granted. With that prophecy and

He bestowed

today. The bitter cold made it unwise for her to leave her chambers, lest she fall ill. Yet before departing the palace that morning, Salvador had

formalities concluded, the king instructed the princes and princesses to spend time with their horses, ensuring they were

games and entertainment. A temporary stage had even been erected just for the occasion, and would soon

set to compete, showcasing their riding skills and engaging in a spirited match of polo. The stables were already at full capacity, with some horses tethered outside due to the lack

Ryan were kept under close guard. No one was

in advance. Though she had not come in person,

and Royal Guard in conducting a thorough security sweep. The racetrack consisted of a dry, yellowed field, while the adjacent sandy terrain had

and accepted their gifts. He had

particularly expensive but covers