Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

The next morning, Rafael announced Connor's death, leaving the entire court in shock and mourning.

"His Majesty is overcome with grief and has fallen ill. For the next few days, matters regarding the kingdom will be handled by myself and Mr. Murray. The arrangements for Prince Connor's funeral will be overseen by the Royal Management Department and the Protocol Department," Rafael said solemnly.

Malcolm staggered, barely keeping his balance. His eyes were bloodshot from a sleepless night. Even though he had mentally prepared himself, the news still hit him hard.

The news reached the inner palace at the same time. Since returning last night, Kylie had been wailing inconsolably, demanding to see Connor. Upon hearing the dreadful news, she fainted once more. Thankfully, a royal physician had been stationed at Everspring Palace and was able to revive her.

Once the queen was conscious again, her screams echoed throughout the entire area.

At Iridescent Palace, Grace felt a mix of relief and worry upon hearing the news. Relief-because her plan had finally succeeded, leaving no trace that could lead back to her or her son.

Worry-because ever since Caden returned from the royal garden yesterday, he hadn't eaten or drunk a single drop of water. He seemed completely dazed, and was unresponsive to anyone calling him. His eyes were vacant as if he had lost himself.

A royal physician said Caden was in shock, and would recover gradually with some calming herbs. However, the calming medicine couldn't be administered as Caden refused to open his mouth.

older maids in the palace whispered that his soul had been frightened out of him and

had no faith in such superstitions. Besides, with Connor now gone, summoning a high priest to Iridescent

that be an admission

not act. She could only wait and

Palace. Neither Sylvia nor Cecil would be

Palace, Sylvia had not closed her eyes all night. Upon hearing the news of Connor's death, her blood ran cold. Since returning from the royal gardens the previous day,

already questioned Cecil about the matter of the

young boy had confessed the caltrop was his, though he had no idea how it ended up beneath the saddle. Knowing the caltrop

he had touched Connor's horse before the event. He told her he had ridden every horse, including

press her son for further details. She understood it was a trap that

a past charge of conspiring against a royal heir, and there was also the matter

would believe her if she

one left by her side was Heidi, a maid she had never been particularly fond of Yet, after spending their days together in Laurel Palace, the clever and loyal Heidi had done

knelt and wept. "Your Grace, let all the