After Sylvian departed for the capital, Damian turned to Samir, advising the exhausted messenger to rest at the estate until morning.
"Thank you, Your Grace, but I must return to the capital immediately," Samir replied respectfully. "I need to ensure from my own post that Prince August survives the night."
"If you are determined to return, then change your course," Damian commanded, his voice growing cold and decisive. "Go directly to Xavier's private residence. Search his quarters and secure any documentation, correspondence, or ledger that can support August's claims. Though his men are likely already burning those papers, we cannot afford to concede."
Samir bowed low to the Duke and Duchess, accepting the order without another word before departing into the dark.
Once they were alone in the quiet corridor, Eilika spoke, her anxiety plain. "I never imagined such a thing could occur within the palace gates—to fire upon a royal prince under the King's own oversight..."
