Her Majestic Battle Cry

Before leaving the capital, Yuvan went to the palace to bid farewell to Ruth.

Her eyes were brimming with tears as she spoke, “If you truly care for me, you’ll petition His Majesty to allow me to go to Valken with you. At least then we wouldn’t have to endure this separation, never knowing when we might see each other again.”

Yuvan knelt before her, his voice choked with emotion as he replied, “Mom, I don’t want to leave you either. But Valken is nothing like the palace. Your body wouldn’t be able to bear the long and exhausting journey.”

Ruth dabbed at her tears. “There was a time when your sister could stay in the palace and look after me. But now that she’s been sent to the Heritage Bureau and you’re returning to Valken, what hope do I have left here? Besides, I’m much better now. The hardships of the journey won’t trouble me. If you won’t petition His Majesty, then I’ll do it myself. He’s kind hearted. I’m sure he’ll allow us to stay together.”

“Mom, we’ll be reunited soon, I promise. Just give me a little time.”

Ruth reached for his hand, her frail fingers like brittle branches yet gripping him tightly.

“My son, the country is at peace now. The people are safe and living stable lives. The Southern Frontier has been reclaimed, and the fighting at Victory Pass has ceased. You must work hard to govern your territory well.

“Starhaven can become the prosperous and peaceful realm your dad envisioned, a place where everyone thrives. Nothing is more important than that. I’ve spent most of my life in this secluded palace, and I’ve seen so little of the world. But even I know that the people want nothing more than to live in peace and security.” Content © NôvelDrama.Org 2024.

Yuvan’s expression faltered for a moment, but he forced a smile. “Mom, you’ve spent your life in the palace. The things you’ve been told were filtered before they ever reached you. What you see isn’t the full picture.

“The capital may be prosperous, but do you know how many people still live in misery? They go hungry, lack proper clothing, and sell their children or pawn their wives just to survive. The heavy taxes and labor levies leave them overwhelmed.”

Ruth started to shake her head, but Yuvan clasped her hand tightly, continuing, “And do you know about the Sinclair family–father and sons–who died on the battlefield at the Southern Frontier? His Majesty could have sent Rafael to the frontlines earlier, but he hesitated. He feared Rafael might grow too powerful, and that delay cost the Sinclair family their lives.”

“No, you’ve only heard rumors,” Ruth said firmly. “I may lack experience, but even I know

how complicated the situation at the Southern Frontier was. The Duke of Northwatch reclaimed the region once, but Sandoria’s counterattack caught them completely off guard.

“That wasn’t something His Majesty or the court officials could have foreseen. And don’t forget, His Majesty had only just ascended the throne. Who could have predicted such a swift reversal of fortune?”

Her frail hands suddenly clamped tightly around Yuvan’s wrist, tears streaming down her face. “My son, listen to me. Valken is a wealthy domain. It will bring you and your children a lifetime of prosperity. Do not take unnecessary risks–don’t gamble with your life or your family’s.”

Yuvan frowned, his tone sharpening as he said, “Mom, what are you talking about? What do you think I’m planning to do? I was only pointing out some flaws in the system. It’s just a casual conversation between us, nothing more.”

Her cloudy eyes met his, a strange mixture of laughter and sorrow in her gaze.

“A casual conversation,” she murmured. “Yes, just idle chatter. I know your heart is kind. If you’re unhappy with your princess consort or your concubine, then take more women into your household. Surround yourself with those who can warm your heart and brighten your days. Life could be so good–don’t give me reasons to worry about you.”

Yuvan’s expression darkened slightly. “Who’s been whispering nonsense into your ears, Mom? Who’s been spinning tales to make me out as some sort of traitor? I am myself, and Eleanor is Eleanor.

you

this–if ever “I hold justice in my heart; I am no rebel or usurper. And let me tell someone raises their sword against the capital, it will only be because the king has become corrupt and unworthy of the throne.”

Ruth trembled at his words, withdrawing her hands slowly.

“I am an old woman,” she said weakly. “I shouldn’t meddle in such matters. Let’s pretend I never heard that or asked about it. But remember this–I am your mom, and I still live in this palace.”

Yuvan was silent for a long moment before he spoke softly, “Mom, don’t worry. The queen dowager is merciful. No matter what happens, she’ll see to it that you live out your days in peace.”

Ruth smiled faintly, though tears glistened in her eyes.

“Good, very good,” she said with a bitter laugh. “A son who places his mom’s fate in the hands of someone else’s mercy–such a devoted son I have.”