Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 859

A storm of opposition swept through the court.

"This is preposterous! If such a place is established, what will become of the principles of obedience and virtue?" one official shouted, his voice rising above the others.

"Indeed! This will only embolden women, making them disrespect their in-laws, stir up jealousy, and even cause chaos in the household," another added vehemently.

"I don't think this reflects your views, Your Highness. This is clearly Her Grace's idea, right? To please her, His Highness is willing to sacrifice men's dignity. How laughable!" came another scathing remark.

Salvador sat on the throne, observing the uproar below. He occasionally pursed his lips or let a small smile slip, but this was a true spectacle. Since Rafael returned from the Southern Frontier, praise for him had flowed like a river, while criticism was a rare bird.

He sighed inwardly.

Ah, Rafael was still too young. He had struck a nerve with the officials. If women had an escape route, how could they be controlled? Rafael thought he was winning the hearts of the people, but in doing so, he lost the support of the scholars.

This strategy was Rafael's miscalculation.

The noise continued, but Salvador remained indifferent, only suggesting that they revisit the topic at the next court session. He hoped the situation would simmer and grow, with even more voices of dissent by then.

Rafael, for his part, didn't want Salvador to agree too quickly either. He aimed to let the matter gain traction, ensuring that the populace would be abuzz about it. If this initiative were to be realized, it needed to make a significant commotion so everyone would be aware of this new opportunity.

A month of commotion would be perfect. By then, the entire capital would know about it. Plus, renovating the space and setting up accommodations would take time. A month was just right.

Rafael was confident Salvador would eventually relent, as he would feel pressure to comply with no real choice.

After the court session concluded, Rafael strolled out, hands clasped behind his back. The officials who had just condemned him now fell silent, knowing better than to speak against him alone. If they were to criticize, it would be in a group, never alone.