Her Graceful War Song

Sebastian pulled out a sheet of paper, listing various drugs and poisons, along with their effects and side effects. He showed it to them briefly before explaining each one in turn.

The first was called Hellfire. It caused hallucinations, magnifying a person's deepest obsessions and thereby granting them greater strength. However, it required an antidote. The woman, after killing her family, had attempted to chase down the neighbors. But when the officials arrived, she had calmed down. So, Hellfire was not the cause.

The second was called Shadecap. This was a type of fungus that could induce hallucinations and madness, potentially leading to self-harm or violence. Before such effects occurred, the person would display symptoms like crying or laughing uncontrollably and moving erratically. Shadecap wouldn't give someone enough strength to kill twelve people.

The third was Soulgrip Threadworm. Also known as a parasitic worm, the parasite would enter the brain and allow another person to control their actions, although the controlled individual would retain memories of the event.

Sebastian continued, "The most crucial point is that a Soulgrip Threadworm causes hallucinations and can elicit tremendous and frenzied strength. During the period of control, the person would appear as though they had transformed, with their body and limbs under the controller's command. If the controller is a skilled martial artist, then the person would exhibit similar strength and martial prowess."

After hearing Sebastian's explanation, Patrick and the two deputy ministers exchanged glances, their brows furrowing in contemplation.

"But how did a Soulgrip Threadworm enter her head?" Patrick asked.

Sebastian replied, "Through food or medicine. The worms might have been inside her brain for a long time, as they grow slowly. It usually takes six months to a year for them to mature and become effective." Patrick said, "Just because such a thing exists, doesn't mean she was infected with them."

"I'm here just to clarify a few things. This case still has its mysteries, doesn't it? For example, why was she able to kill twelve people-her own family members, no less-so easily? The most plausible explanation seems to be the Soulgrip Threadworm."

Rafael asked the most crucial question, "If it is indeed a Soulgrip Threadworm, do you have the confidence to remove it from the woman's body?"

"No need for me. My apprentice, Ivy, can handle it. She is deeply knowledgeable about parasitic toxins and is very familiar with them," Sebastian replied.

Rafael nodded. "Thank you, Sebastian."

Then, Rafael turned to Matthew and said, "Please have someone escort Sebastian back."

Matthew personally saw him out. When he returned, everyone fell into silence.

Matthew asked, "Your Highness, should we return the case for reexamination?"

Patrick responded first, "With the doubts resolved, it should indeed be returned for reexamination."

Rafael, however, shook his head,

"No. This case is more complex than it seems. Mr. Lloyd, I suggest that both the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Justice submit a joint petition to the king, requesting him to appoint a special investigator for investigation."

Patrick was taken aback. Generally, when there were doubts about a case, it was returned for reexamination. If a special investigator was appointed, it would imply distrust in the local governor. Could it be that the Hell Monarch had uncovered information unknown to the Ministry of Justice?

Realizing this, Patrick immediately

said to the two deputy ministers, "Keep this matter confidential for now. Don't utter a word to anyone, especially regarding the Soulgrip Threadworm. We will decide after submitting a joint petition to the king." Content property of NôvelDra/ma.Org.

Those present understood the

gravity of the situation. The evidence was questionable, and the victims were respected locals. The whole family was wiped out and the case had caused a big stir, which, suggested someone might be manipulating the situation.

They had to handle this case carefully, or they could lose their jobs.

After thinking it over, Patrick broke into a cold sweat and bowed to Rafael. "I apologize for any offense, Your Highness. I hope you can forgive me."

Rafael replied, "Your urgency is due to public pressure to convict the accused woman quickly, Mr. Lloyd. But rushing this could lead to mistakes."

Patrick wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Your careful approach is admirable, Your Highness. Fortunately, you have delayed things. If we had followed the initial ruling, it might have caused bigger problems." Rafael warned, "Being in a high position means you need to be extra cautious, especially with your daughter in the palace. Any mistake could be costly."

"Yes, of course!" Patrick murmured, his previous anxiety and agitation now replaced by a calm demeanor.