Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair) novel Chapter 481

The moment everyone heard Rafael's question, their hearts sank.

Noah hurriedly said, "Your Highness, please forgive me. No one has bullied Lady Helen..."

"Earl of Gracehold, are you saying my mother is lying and falsely accusing you?" Rafael coldly retorted.

"N-no, that's not what I meant."

Although the Earl of Gracehold held a position in court, when facing someone as cold and imposing as the Hell Monarch—a seasoned general from the battlefield—his confidence faltered.

Under Rafael's piercing gaze, he felt a chill run down his spine.

"It's all a misunderstanding—just a misunderstanding," said Noah.

Having gathered her wits, Dorothy immediately questioned, "Are you trying to throw your weight around, Your Highness?"

Samuel finally recalled his scholarly pride and disdain for powerful princes like Rafael.

He scoffed coldly, "Lady Helen was throwing her weight around. She barged into my family home to meddle in our internal affairs. And now, even you are stepping in to protect her, Your Highness. Are you really going to bully our humble family?"

Rafael didn't even glance at him, his eyes filled with indifference. "He talks too much. Dylan, slap him!"

Dylan, who had been waiting outside after driving the carriage, entered the room in quick strides at Rafael's words. Grabbing Samuel by the collar, he swung his arm and slapped him hard. The slap sent Samuel sprawling onto the ground.

Half of his face went numb, his ears ringing as his vision momentarily darkened. He struggled to prop himself up, only to be met with another slap. This time, blood spurted from his mouth as he collapsed onto the floor.

"Samuel!"

Both Dorothy and Abigail cried out at once, but Abigail didn't dare step forward to help.