For the next two days, the inquiry pressed forward without pause.
Rhaegar scarcely closed his eyes.
From the few girls rescued at Drias Family Hollow, he drew out fragments of truth. They had been confined within the estate, awaiting transfer into the Palace. One among them recalled overhearing a guard remark:
"Those sent onward—only the strong and healthy are chosen."
The words lingered, heavy with implication.
Rhaegar then turned his attention to the Imperial Medical Bureau.
There, within its records, he uncovered a peculiar pattern.
Beginning three years prior, there had been a recurring requisition—month after month—of medicinal herbs meant to nourish the blood and strengthen vitality, all delivered to the Empress's palace. The quantities were staggering, far exceeding what any single person could require.
When Rhaegar questioned the Chief Physician, he was given but a single, rehearsed answer:
"Her Majesty is of delicate constitution and requires careful restoration."
