Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Salvador listened to Derek's report, his face darkening with anger. "Wretched little fool!" he muttered.

"Your Majesty," Derek continued, "the queen dowager has instructed Lady Helen, Prince Rafael, and Lady Carissa to leave the palace. She told them she wanted Lord Ryan to stay for lunch, and she will send him out when the palace gates close." "Go to the kitchen yourself. Have them prepare some of Her Majesty's favorite dishes. I will join her for the meal," Salvador said.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"Then go to Everspring Palace and deliver my command. Have Barrett take Connor to kneel in the royal chapel. Barrett is to recount every battle the Sinclair family has fought. I will interrogate him on the details."

Derek thought this was an excellent idea, particularly the bit about sending Barrett to handle it.

After Derek withdrew, Salvador stared at the stack of reports before him, his mind drifting.

In recent years, the calls to appoint the crown prince have grown louder. Throughout history, the competition for the title of crown prince has always been fierce, involving the royal family, the palace, noble families, and various other factions.

But in this era, there was no real debate. The selection of the heir was based on birth order and legitimacy. Since Connor was both the eldest son and the legitimate son, his position was unmatched by any other princes. Therefore, there was no doubt that he would be appointed as the crown prince.

Kylie and her family tried several times to test the waters, but Salvador still couldn't make up his mind. The only reason was that, in terms of both ability and temperament, Connor was not suited to be the crown prince. Salvador had a thousand worries about handing the kingdom over to him.

Fortunately, Connor was still young, and the matter of appointing the crown prince could be delayed. However, as a king, Salvador's thoughts reached beyond the present, looking toward the future. Though he had a legitimate eldest son, the boy was not suited for the role. It left Salvador feeling disheartened.

sent everyone out, leaving them to stand by the door. Since no one was serving Victoria, Salvador didn't dare to eat either and stood beside

considered standing, but Victoria gently pressed him back into his seat. She personally picked up some food for him, speaking in a soft, comforting tone to

is your favorite. Eat

she ate without protest. Yet, her appetite

he didn't show it. His hands held the cutlery steady,

composure. The boy

had noticeably improved. She called for a few young servants to take Ryan outside to play, leaving Salvador

think

approval clear.

son of the Sinclair family had been very

old friends brought

similar age. He spent a year as my study partner in

we fought side

.n

de

would call him a