Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 790

Just as she took a few steps out of the royal study, Carissa was intercepted by the queen's head maid, Lydia, who smiled and curtsied.

"Your Grace, it's been a while since we last met."

Carissa returned the smile. "It has. What brings you here, Lydia?"

"Oh, it's nothing urgent. Her Majesty mentioned she hasn't seen you in some time and would like to invite you to Everspring Palace for some tea."

Carissa's throat was parched and she felt the pang of thirst. However, she also knew that an invitation from the queen rarely came with good intentions.

Could she decline?

Seeing the determined look on Lydia's face, she realized that refusal wasn't an option.

"Alright, then. Please lead the way."

"Of course, Your Grace," Lydia replied cheerfully before setting off.

The distance from the royal study to Everspring Palace was a bit of a trek, but the weather was pleasant, with a gentle breeze that eased some of the oppressive atmosphere from the study. As she walked, the tension slowly bled out of Carissa's body.

Although Kylie was not very friendly with her, dealing with the queen was far more manageable than facing Salvador's intimidating presence.

Upon arriving at Everspring Palace, Lydia guided Carissa inside.

As they entered, Carissa spotted a man dressed in luxurious clothing standing up to pay his respects. She recognized him immediately—Lionel, the queen's brother, a third-rank Councilor, and a trusted minister of Salvador's since his ascension to the throne.

Carissa bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Your Majesty."

"Rise," Kylie said, her voice calm and distant as she sat regally on the throne.

Lionel respectfully greeted, "Commander Sinclair."

Carissa returned the greeting, "Lord Lionel."

"Please be seated," Kylie instructed.

Carissa thanked her and took a seat on the left side of the room, while Lionel settled across from her.

Once seated, he wasted no time in saying, "I have something to ask you, Commander Sinclair. Please answer truthfully."

"Your Majesty, may I have a glass of water?" Carissa requested, feeling too thirsty.

Carissa maintained her composure. "I don't think it's necessary to explain how we conducted our investigation to you, Lord Lionel. His Majesty is aware, that's what matters."

"But what evidence do you have? If you can't provide any evidence or explain how you investigated it, I won't believe you."

"You won't believe me?" Carissa raised an eyebrow, confused.

Had Malcolm denied Rafael's words?

"Did Lord Malcolm deny it?" she asked directly.

Lionel shook his head. "My dad doesn't know about this yet. He left early this morning."

"So, he didn't meet His Highness?" Carissa questioned.

Lionel nodded.

Carissa suddenly understood how the other Quinton family members had come to know about it.

Since Malcolm had gone out today after being informed of their visit last night, Rafael probably waited at the residence for quite a while and likely grew impatient. Furthermore, he must have recalled how Carissa had waited outside Oakspire Estate yesterday and gotten angry, so he had just left without giving much explanation.