Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1307

With the royal edict in her hands, Carissa replied, "Your Majesty, Prince Rafael never had any serious illness. After deceiving Mr. Lester and Mr. Walker, he didn't go to Meadow Ridge. Instead, he headed straight for the Southern Frontier."

Salvador's brow furrowed. This was one of his greatest concerns.

"So, you were both aware of the situation in the Southern Frontier beforehand?"

Carissa shook her head. "No, he didn't know Mr. Prince would desert the battle. He only went because he was concerned."

She took a step closer and continued, "He was concerned because those soldiers in the Southern Frontier are his comrades. Together, they had driven the Sandorian forces out of Simonton City. They risked their lives, fought in bloody battles, and some even lost their lives, all for a common goal—to reclaim the Southern Frontier.

"When it was finally won, His Highness handed over the command with pride. But now the Sandorians are returning, with suspicions of collusion with traitors within our kingdom. How could he trust someone who hasn't seen battle in years and spends his time in leisure to lead as a marshal?"

Carissa paused, then continued, "He said the people of Southern Frontier could no longer withstand a prolonged war. They needed a swift resolution. Mr. Prince lacks experience, and his arrogance could lead to disastrous decisions—decisions that would cost countless soldiers their lives. His Highness said that if it weren't for Mr. Prince's presence in the Southern Frontier, he would have no reason to go."

Salvador's eyes flickered. She had cut straight to the heart of the matter: he had placed his trust in the wrong person.

Carissa did not miss his reaction. Her voice grew sharper. "The truth is, Mr. Prince is useless—cowardly, incompetent, and malicious. His desertion has shaken the morale of the army. And Your Majesty, part of the blame lies with you."

Salvador's face twisted as if he had swallowed something bitter.

"As for why His Highness didn't seek permission, it's because he knew you would never grant it. You doubt him, suspect him not based on any ambition, but simply because he can lead troops and has the support of the people. To put it plainly, he's guilty simply for being capable."

She took another step forward, determined, as if ready to risk everything.

"Your Majesty, you can call my words insolent, or accuse me of dishonoring the throne, but I will say this—you have never trusted him. Even if he laid his heart bare before you, you would still believe he hides ill intentions.

"The way he went to the Southern Frontier—that was your doing, Your Majesty. Don't we know the consequences? As a prince, he ventured into a warzone without your command, which is a grave offense. If he succeeds, his victory will be yours. If he fails, his life is forfeit. He took that risk because of you. If you believe he has selfish motives, then I have nothing more to say.

"That is all, Your Majesty. I apologize for my impertinence."

Carissa's gaze did not waver, meeting Salvador's darkened eyes with unwavering steadiness.

Salvador studied her face, flushed with indignation. For some reason, his stormy mood lightened somewhat. After all, anyone who could speak so frankly had nothing but sincerity in their heart. As for Rafael, he remained as elusive as a shadow, always obscured by a fog he could not fully pierce.