Chapter 1093

Before leaving the capital, Yuvan visited the palace to bid farewell to Ruth. Her eyes welled with tears as she said, “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 endure this separation, never knowing when we might see each other again.”

Yuvan knelt, his voice choked with emotion. “Mother, I don’t want to leave you either. But Valken is vastly different from the palace. Your health wouldn't withstand the arduous journey.”

Ruth dabbed at her tears. “Your sister once resided in the palace and cared for me. But now, with her at the Heritage Bureau and your departure for Valken, what hope remains? Besides, I am much stronger now. The journey’s hardships won’t trouble me. If you won’t petition His Majesty, I will. He is kind-hearted; I’m sure he’ll allow us to remain together.”

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

Ruth took his hand, her frail fingers gripping him tightly. “My son, the country enjoys peace. The people are safe and their lives stable. The Southern Frontier has been reclaimed, and the fighting at Victory Pass has ceased. You must govern your territory well.

Starhaven can become the prosperous and peaceful realm your father envisioned, a place where everyone thrives. Nothing is more important. I’ve spent most of my life in this secluded palace, seeing little of the world. But even I know the people desire only peace and security.”

Yuvan’s expression faltered, but he forced a smile. “Mother, your perspective is limited by your life within the palace walls. What you see is not the whole picture.

The capital may appear prosperous, but do you know how many live in misery? They go hungry, lack adequate clothing, and sell their children or pawn their wives to survive. Crushing taxes and labor levies overwhelm them.”

Ruth shook her head, but Yuvan clasped her hand, continuing, “And do you know of the Sinclair family—father and sons—who died at the Southern Frontier? His Majesty could have sent Rafael earlier, but hesitated, fearing Rafael’s growing power. That delay cost the Sinclairs 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, but Sandoria’s counterattack caught them off guard.

That wasn’t something His Majesty or the court could have foreseen. And remember, His Majesty had only recently ascended the throne. Who could have predicted such a swift reversal?”

Her frail hands tightened around his wrist, tears streaming down her face. “My son, listen. Valken is a wealthy domain. It will provide 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. “Mother, what are you implying? What do you think I plan to do? I was merely pointing out flaws in the system. It’s a casual conversation, nothing more.”

Her cloudy eyes met his, a strange mixture of laughter and sorrow in their depths.

“A casual conversation,” she murmured. “Yes, idle chatter. I know your heart is kind. If you’re unhappy with your princess consort or concubine, take more wives. Surround yourself with those who bring you joy. Life could be so good—don’t give me cause to worry.”

Yuvan’s expression darkened. “Who’s been whispering nonsense in your ear, Mother? Who’s painting me as a traitor? I am who I am, and Eleanor is Eleanor. I hold justice in my heart; I am no rebel or usurper. And let me tell you this—if anyone raises a sword against the capital, it will only be because the king has become corrupt and unworthy.”

Ruth trembled, withdrawing her hands.

“I am an old woman,” she said weakly. “I shouldn’t meddle. Let’s pretend I never heard that. But remember—I am your mother, and I still live in this palace.”

Yuvan was silent before speaking softly, “Mother, don’t worry. The Queen Dowager is merciful. Regardless of what happens, she’ll ensure you live out your days in peace.”

Ruth smiled faintly, tears glistening in her eyes.

“Good, very good,” she said with a bitter laugh. “A son who entrusts his mother’s fate to another’s mercy—such a devoted son I have.”