Chapter 494

“Your Majesty, what is Septimus’s true identity?” Rafael asked.

Rafael, having received Septimus’s intelligence from Louis, investigated all military commanders and captured soldiers, but found none named Septimus Tetra.

Salvador shook his head. “I don’t know. Likely, no one does. Your late father-in-law received the initial intelligence. Perhaps he knew Septimus’s identity, or perhaps not. Septimus’s escape from the enemy camp indicates impressive martial arts skills; he’s no ordinary soldier.”

Rafael frowned. He hadn’t inquired about Septimus’s identity when receiving the intelligence; even if he had, it likely wouldn't have been disclosed to protect the intelligence—it was too risky.

“Your Majesty, he’s provided valuable intelligence and served our kingdom well. We must rescue him,” Rafael said.

Salvador nodded solemnly. “I need you to go in person. He’s alive; Sandoria intends to exchange him for a city. Timothy’s report places Septimus in a dungeon in an unknown location near Sandoria’s border. Your task: locate him and rescue him.”

Rafael knelt, his gaze resolute. “I understand and accept your command, Your Majesty.”

Salvador sighed. “Oliver is delaying negotiations. Sandoria deeply resents Septimus; he’s likely suffering. Dead or alive, bring him back. We need to know who he is.”

“Understood. I depart for Sandoria’s border city tomorrow. I’ll leave Supreme Court matters to Matthew,” Rafael replied.

“Be careful. Bring skilled fighters, disguised as civilians, to gather information. If you can’t rescue him, don’t be reckless, understood?”

“Yes, Your Majesty!”

Salvador added, “Patrick is in Brightmoor District investigating the annihilated family. We have clues about the culprits; don’t worry about that. Don’t let it distract you.”

Rafael nodded slightly.

Salvador continued, “And Leona… I don’t wish to interfere in my ministers’ families. Have Carissa care for her. I truly hope Uncle Harvey…”

Salvador trailed off, shaking his head. He knew Harvey’s intentions: to remain in the capital, not out of devotion to his mother, Megan, but because he was unwilling to leave its wealth and privilege.

Harvey’s weakness and scheming were evident. Despite Megan’s age, he hadn’t moved her from the palace, leaving her with elderly concubines. His devotion was a facade; his love for his children, tainted by cowardice and cunning.

“Your Majesty, Carissa has sent people to look after Leona. Your reprimanding the Earl of Gracehold should prevent further neglect. However, Samuel disrespected his wife and shouldn’t be trusted with significant responsibilities,” Rafael said.

Disgust filled Salvador’s eyes. “I’m aware. He keeps his title, but never serves in court again. He’s lost his chance to inherit the Earldom of Gracehold. Let his family be in chaos for a while; let them create trouble elsewhere, as long as it doesn’t harm Leona.”

“Your considerations are thoughtful, Your Majesty.”

“Have you heard about the courtesan from a brothel, supposedly the daughter of one of Aunt Eleanor’s concubines?” Salvador asked.

“Yes, I have.” (Winona uncovered this information.)

Salvador mused, “What’s Aunt Eleanor trying to achieve? A grand princess’s daughter sent to a brothel, then into a noble family? Was the Earl of Gracehold’s family the only one affected, or are others involved, under different pretenses?”

Salvador valued family loyalty but was deeply suspicious, connecting even the smallest hints into possibilities.

“Consider sending someone to investigate further, Your Majesty,” Rafael suggested.

Salvador smiled. “It’s not pressing. You may go about your duties.”

“I will take my leave.” Rafael saluted and withdrew.