Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)

A bit of public sympathy could ensure the Kingsley family wouldn’t face too much trouble in the capital, allowing them to survive without having to abandon their home.

Henry’s marriage to Eleanor was meant to lift his family from its declining fortunes. By that time, the Marquis of Grovehill’s family had already seen better days and their former glory was fading fast.

With Eleanor’s support, Henry’s family restored its standing. His family members began entering the court and securing positions, while Jessica led the way in business ventures that, despite taxes, proved lucrative.

With both political and financial success, he may have initially struggled with his choices. After all, he had started as an ordinary youth, unaware of the dark depths of human nature. But greed had a way of lowering one’s standards, and what began as a moral conflict soon turned into a willingness to become an accomplice.

Henry had so many daughters with his concubines, yet he could easily play the role of a loving dad, making them believe he cherished them. Unfortunately, all those feelings were merely tools for his manipulation.

“Your crimes are unforgivable. His Majesty has decreed that you will be executed soon to serve as a warning to others.”

With that, Rafael turned on his heel and walked out, leaving Henry crumpled on the floor.