Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1094

Guilt flickered in Yuvan's heart, but so did a hint of impatience.

"Why do you speak like this, Mom? I can't stay by your side in the capital, so of course, I hope the queen dowager will be kind and look after you. That way, I won't spend my days worrying about you."

"Enough. Don't say any more. Just go. Be safe on your journey," Ruth said, waving him off.

She had raised this son herself—how could she not know his temperament? How could she not see through his expression?

"Mom, forgive me for not being dutiful. It's the peak of summer and the heat is unbearable, so I can't take you with me to my fief. Besides, what would His Majesty think if I brought you along? Even if I've done nothing wrong, with how suspicious he can be, he'd probably find some reason to accuse me."

Ruth simply nodded. "I understand. Go now."

Yuvan nodded before calling in Molly, Fiona, and his children to say their farewells. Ruth showed little affection toward her daughters-in-law and grandchildren, her expression distant and unreadable. Once they had all left, she coughed softly a few times.

Oscar Grant, the chamberlain who had served her for many years, knew how upset she was and tried to comfort her.

"The weather really is too hot for travel, Your Grace. Taking you along wouldn't be good for your health. His Highness is thinking of you. Please don't dwell on it too much—it's not worth hurting yourself over."

Ruth sighed heavily. "You watched him grow up. How can you not know what kind of person he is? If he were truly so dutiful, why didn't he leave for the fiefdom back in March or April, when the weather was cooler? Why wait until the height of summer?

"All those fine-sounding reasons he gave—they're just words. He's always been like this since he was a boy. He doesn't do what should be done, but is a master at finding excuses. He'll spin a thousand reasons to make himself seem good, to make others believe he's done the right thing.