Aside from having household soldiers in Hell Monarch Estate, Rafael had not invested in developing a Shadow Guard or any such force. At most, there were a few skilled warriors who frequently went on official assignments, but they all had their duties to attend to and would only return every half month or so to report.
There were also spies, mostly used to gather intelligence on the enemy, but they were rarely used for private matters.
The lack of a larger force was due to several reasons.
Before Rafael had been stationed at the Southern Frontier, he had already earned his battle merits. During his time in the capital leading the Mystic Army, Sigmund had strictly forbidden him from establishing too many guards, particularly a Shadow Guard, which was considered a
serious taboo.
Then, after Rafael went to the Southern Frontier, there was no time to think about such matters. Upon his eventual return to the capital, amidst Salvador’s growing suspicions, any thoughts of increasing his forces were promptly abandoned.
Naturally, it was a calculated decision. The guard forces in the estate, as well as Rafael’s household soldiers, could handle unexpected situations and ensure a safe retreat if necessary.
If the king sent him on an official mission, the Mystic Army could spare some men. But now, with a secret mission, Rafael couldn’t use the Mystic Army–he had to rely on his own people.
“Would you like me to come with you?” Carissa asked.
“No need,” Rafael replied, smiling as he gently ruffled her hair. “It’s not dangerous. We’re just gathering information. It’s not like we’re going to take any action. If it comes to that, we won’t be going alone. Plus, with the year–end approaching, the Capital Guard and the Garrison Unit will be busy. It’s better if you stay here and keep an eye on things.”
Carissa remembered how hectic things would be for the Capital Guard and the Garrison Unit around New Year’s, and how easy it was for things to go awry. With her public duties, she couldn’t afford to leave the capital at this time.
Still, the thought of Rafael going with just a few men made her uneasy.
When Kyle heard the news the next day, ‘he mentioned that Gracewood Women’s Academy would be closing for the holidays in ten or so days. Since there were only a few days left until Rafael was setting off, Kyle suggested he accompany him on the trip, as it was unlikely the academy would urgently need him for the remaining days.
Carissa felt reassured that Kyle was going, but this matter still needed to be discussed with Catherine and the other teachers.
Of course, Kyle didn’t reveal the true nature of the trip, only telling the teachers that he was planning to return to Meadow Ridge to spend New Year’s in peace.
– 430 BONUS
Charsat 1190
When he mentioned it to the other teachers, they all agreed. After all, he would still be around. for the next three days. He could finish making the exam papers and explaining it to them before leaving. As for the painting and calligraphy classes, they could skip those and let him return to Meadow Rilge. novelbin
The plans were settled, and today, the exams were to take place.
The exams focused mainly on essays and arithmetic, with painting and calligraphy as secondary subjects. For the essay section, students had significant freedom to express themselves without being restricted to formal styles or rigid formats. They could write on any topic, ranging from current events and societal critiques to lighthearted personal reflections or daily life anecdotes.
The main goal was to assess their writing skills, insight, and ability to recall what they had learned.
At the Supreme Court, Matthew led Randall to meet Rafael.
This was Randall’s first time in the main hall of the Supreme Court, and he was struck by the orderliness and the imposing atmosphere. Rows of bookshelves stood tall, filled with countless case files. Some were locked away, while others were simply stacked.
The only familiar thing in the room was the large volume of The Laws of Starhaven placed on a wooden stand to the right, for that was what Randall had been studying. Matthew had advised him to become well–versed in that book, as it would be beneficial for his future promotions. So, Randall had thrown himself into the task, reading late into the night. Each word he absorbed felt like a step forward in securing his future.
He deliberately set aside his personal identity, reminding himself that he was now a warden of the Supreme Court, with an official post. His task was to perform his duties well and aim for a promotion. He felt as though he could glimpse a future for himself.
But when Matthew came to him and said Rafael wanted to meet him, the world Randall had been building in his mind came crashing back to reality. He was still Yuvan’s eldest son, borne by a concubine and raised by Avis–that was an irrefutable truth.
Randall bowed respectfully. “Greetings, Your Highness.”
”
Since Carissa had scolded him, he no longer dared to leverage his family ties.
However, Rafael greeted him warmly with a smile. “There’s no need for such formalities between family. Have a seat.”
The lack of pressure from an authoritative figure eased Randall somewhat, though he still felt uneasy.
He sat down, trying to maintain composure. “Yes, Your Highness.”
He had expected Rafael to chat with him for a while before getting to the main topic.
Instead, the moment he sat down, Rafael asked directly, “What do you know about the situation in Lunvale?”