Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Salvador announced his decision before asking Rafael about the investigation.

The king knew the colt wouldn't go wild for no reason. He had asked about the horses before-some had a bit of a temper, but the children had already tamed them.

Rafael didn't hide anything and handed over the caltrop. "Someone placed this under the saddle. When the saddle was empty, the thorn caused only a mild discomfort to the horse. But once Prince Connor got on, the sharp spikes stabbed into the horse's flesh, causing it to go berserk from the pain."

Salvador's gaze grew cold as he looked at Carissa. "Did no one inspect the saddles beforehand?"

Carissa hurriedly responded, "Your Majesty, we checked thoroughly. The horses were under constant guard, and aside from the three princes and Ryan, no one was allowed near them. They led their own horses; no one else handled them during the journey."

Victoria's expression was equally grim. "I gave strict orders to the guards. The horses, the three princes, and Ryan should never leave their sight. Unless one of my own trusted servants has betrayed me, no one should have been able to approach those horses."

"But this caltrop was placed under the saddle," Salvador said, his voice growing fierce with anger. "Who would want to harm Connor? This caltrop doesn't appear to be something that could have been made by just anyone. Whose work is this?"

Rafael hesitated, then knelt and apologized. "It was a device I brought for lessons with the children. When the guards found out that Prince Cecil had taken one to play with, they informed me. I ordered him to return it, but he claimed it was lost."

"Sylvia?" Salvador suggested, his mind immediately going to her.

was so young and innocent. He could never have

in the past, and she harbors ambitions for Cecil to be the heir. It makes sense-revenge, and perhaps even an attempt to secure the crown prince title for Cecil," the

heard of the quarrel between Kylie and Sylvia. The motivations of revenge and ambition were plausible, and the plan seemed to have unfolded smoothly. But had Sylvia, in her

obvious flaw? How would she

of her own life, and

Sylvia truly be so

broke the silence, saying, "We must investigate further. This situation is not as simple as it

Your Majesty," Rafael

eyes were red, tears threatening to spill. "I have failed him failed to protect him, allowing

replied, his voice heavy with sorrow. "It is I who underestimated

it! I want answers. No matter who

bowed. "I will investigate, Your

days, I will stay herez with Connor. The arrangements for the funeral will be handled

paused, his throat tight

Connor survives these three days, place his garments and crown in the coffin. But if

his throat, two tears