Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1018

The next morning, after court was dismissed, Rafael brought the recently reviewed case files to the royal study for an audience with the king. Along the way, he took the opportunity to give a routine report on the progress of the treason case.

Though the case was still unresolved, the Ministry of Justice continued its investigation and submitted periodic updates. At this point, these reports were more procedural than substantive. Suspicion had increasingly focused on Yuvan, yet Salvador hadn't authorized an investigation into him. In fact, he hadn't even publicly addressed the issue. Even after Rafael had spelled things out clearly, the king remained silent.

Salvador skimmed through the files Rafael had brought. After hearing the latest developments in the treason case, he commented, "So, it seems there's still no real progress."

There could be progress if he said something!

Salvador set the files aside. "Well, keep investigating."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Rafael responded.

Noticing his brother lingering instead of leaving, Salvador raised a brow. "Is there something else?"

Rafael grinned. "Nothing urgent. Just that Uncle Yuvan has invited me and my family to dinner tonight."

Salvador glanced up, a flicker of surprise crossing his eyes before he smiled. "It's been some time since Uncle Yuvan returned to the capital to attend to his duties. As you're younger than him, you should've hosted him first. But since he's extended the invitation, go ahead and enjoy."

Rafael's grin widened, showing off his pearly white teeth, his smile as bright as the midday sun. "That's exactly what I thought, Your Majesty."

For once, Salvador's expression softened. "I hear Edgeview Estate has quite the collection of rare and exotic flowers. Take a look around while you're there."

Rafael's smile grew even brighter, his teeth gleaming again. "I was thinking the same thing, Your Majesty."

Salvador chuckled. "Go on, then. The prime minister is waiting for me."

"Understood." Rafael bowed, excusing himself before turning to leave.

Salvador watched him go, the smile lingering on his lips. For reasons he couldn't quite explain, he felt a rare sense of relief settle over him.

Ever since the treason case had come to light, a heavy weight seemed to have lodged itself in his chest, making him see suspicion in everyone around him. Now that the shadow of doubt had gradually narrowed its focus on Yuvan, that weight only seemed to press harder, making it almost impossible to breathe.

For years, Yuvan had built his influence in Valken. Yet, Salvador still had no clear grasp of how extensive that power had become. The agents sent to investigate hadn't returned—not a single one.