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Chapter 596 No Escape Left
Letters exchanged between Dominic and the crown prince. Movement records from Duskmoor Manor during the time of the attack.
Armory logs detailing weapons issued and returned.
Each piece added another layer. Each detail locked the truth more firmly in place.
Wit
cument presented, the color drained further from Alaric’s face.
looked hollow, as if whatever strength had been holding him upright had fina
he throne, Theodric watched in
wen set down the final docume
This concludes the evidence c
Theodric’s restraint broke
“Disgraceful.”
His voice rang th
“How could
Alaric’s
But
e disappointment in his eyes deepening.
ttack on the Nordian envoy.”
ered himself fully, head bowed, not daring to look up.
did not come.
ment. A thin thread of relief crept in.
just like Grandfather said.
princess was still in Vanelle.
ot a moment for escalation. “Your Majesty need not be angered just yet.”
voice rose again, steady and composed.
stured toward the remaining documents. “There is more to consider.”
Alaric’s heart lurched violently.
Elowen drew out another set of papers and unfolded them.
“My father once served with a deputy named Mercer, who fell in battle years ago, leaving behind a widow and a son. That son, Josh, took part in this year’s royal examinations.”
Her tone was calm, almost gentle.
“He did not pass. I found that unusual, so I kept his work, intending to look into it.”
She glanced toward the throne.
“Your Grace has often said that Your Majesty values the examinations and the fair selection of talent above all else, and has repeatedly issued orders against corruption.”
She continued smoothly, “Josh is not only the son of a fallen soldier, but also a student of Edmund. His ability has been widely praised. If he had simply failed under ordinary circumstances, that would be one thing. But given his reputation, the result raises questions.”
Her voice softened slightly.
“I bring this forward not to complicate matters, nor to take advantage of the present situation. But if he was wronged, then the loss is not his alone. It is a loss to the realm.”
She held the documents steadily.
“True talent is rare. If someone worthy has been cast aside, then it is only right he be given the chance to serve the crown.”
Theodric considered her words.
“The examination case has already been assigned for review,” he said. “It has not yet been concluded.”
His gaze shifted.
“Harvey. This matter was entrusted to you. What progress has been made?”
Harvey stepped forward quickly.
“Your Majesty, I began the investigation immediately. The results of two candidates from the Baker family, Albert and Liam, raised concerns, so I retrieved their examination papers for comparison.”
He spoke carefully, “I also questioned the deputy examiner, Travis, as well as the clerk. responsible for copying their papers, Milo. Travis confirmed that all procedures were followed
Chapter 596 No Escape Left
correctly, from distribution to collection, sealing, and transcription. His statement has been recorded and signed.”
He hesitated briefly.
“As for Milo, I have attempted to summon him multiple times, but he has declined, citing his mother’s serious illness. He claims he cannot leave her side. I did not wish to force the matter, so I left instructions for him to appear once her condition improved. However, he has not yet come.”
Theodric frowned slightly.
“Then he will come now.”
He turned his head.
“Quin. Deliver my order. He is to appear at once.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
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