Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair) novel Chapter 1536

The caltrop was placed into Caden's trembling hands. Examining it carefully, he realized there was no mistake—it was the very one Cecil had once played with.

"As they have treated you, so must you treat them in return," Grace whispered in his ear, sending a shudder down his spine.

In a panic, Caden flung the caltrop away.

Grace retrieved it herself, then took her son's small, icy hand in hers and led him away.

"The fact that I no longer hold authority in the harem has emboldened Queen Kylie," she said. "She believes she may act against you without consequences. But she is mistaken. I still have people loyal to me placed everywhere. The moment I uncovered their treachery, I had them brought here for questioning. You saw it with your own eyes, and you know the man—he is from Everspring Palace."

Caden's mind was in turmoil, torn between fear and distress.

Kylie wished him dead. But did his elder brother wish that as well? Had all their kindness merely been an elaborate pretense?

Caden returned to his chambers, dazed, barely registering his mother's soft-spoken words.

"Tomorrow, you shall do as follows…"

When she finished speaking, Caden was shaking uncontrollably.

"If you do not act, it is you who will die," Grace added, her voice sharpening.

A sob tore from Caden. Once more, he hurled the caltrop away and threw himself into his mother's embrace.

"Mom, I don't want to die, but I don't want to harm my brother either. I am so afraid."

Grace stroked his back in soothing motions. "My dear child, I know you have a kind heart. But kindness does not mean you must stand idly by while others seek to destroy you. To refrain from harming others does not mean you cannot protect yourself."

As Caden cried, he asked, "Can I not do as I did before—win over Uncle Rafael and Aunt Carissa? If they stand by me, won't they keep me safe?"

"It is of no use," Grace replied gently, adjusting her approach. "They all know that your elder brother will soon be made crown prince. Their allegiance lies with him."

She paused before continuing in a softer, coaxing tone, saying, "Besides, I do not mean for your brother to die. Once he is thrown from his horse, the royal physicians will tend to him. He will live, with only his legs being ruined. Without the ability to stand, he cannot be the crown prince."