Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1325

The next day, Carissa went to the palace to meet Salvador. She suggested that all the Mystic Army soldiers in the Nightsteel Guard be placed back under her command.

Upon hearing this, Salvador fixed her with a piercing gaze. "Are you suggesting that I hand over all the forces in the capital to you?"

"The Mystic Army, Your Majesty," Carissa replied, lifting her chin, her eyes unwavering. "The troops stationed outside the capital, including 15,000 men of the Sacred Fire Regiment, are being sent to Valken. The capital's only remaining line of defense is the Mystic Army, and it cannot be split any further." Salvador repeated the question, his tone flat but tinged with skepticism. "You want me to place all the forces in the capital, including my personal guards, under your command?"

Carissa didn't hesitate or even consider whether he might suspect her. She simply nodded firmly and said, "Yes, Your Majesty!"

Salvador looked at her for a long moment, then smiled.

"Your husband commands the forces at the Southern Frontier. Your grandfather and uncles lead the troops at Victory Pass against Westhaven. General Murray is your dad's former subordinate, and General Farrell is one of the men you rescued. Now, you ask me to hand over the entire military force of the capital to you. Do you understand what this means, Commander Sinclair?"

Carissa stood tall, unflinching. "Prince Rafael defends the Southern Frontier. My grandfather and uncles protect Victory Pass from Westhaven. General Murray deals with the mountain bandits. General Farrell is stationed to confront the rebels. As for me, I will protect the capital. This is about each of us playing our part to defend the kingdom and its people.

did little to soften the coldness in his eyes. "You make a compelling argument, but I would

it costs my life." Salvador studied her for a long moment before lowering his gaze to organize

a great burden on her. I plan to bring Aunt Helen

didn't ask for her opinion.

anger rose within Carissa's chest. She took a deep breath, forcing herself to stay calm. She reminded herself that Salvador was the

her command of the military, so he must feel insecure.

patient. She had

gaze sharp. "Your Majesty, I must ask-do you truly wish for my mother-in-law and Ryan to accompany the queen dowager in the palace, or do you intend to use them as hostages, to control us should my husband and I make

Salvador's eyes, but his tone remained measured. "Carissa, you've

the military command at the Southern Frontier, and my grandfather and uncles are defending Victory Pass against Westhaven. Meanwhile, I've been given command

blood to protect the land beneath our feet. We're not fools who seek to gain at any cost. We're putting ourselves at risk, and

your subjects, it's our duty to ease your burdens and help you feel secure. But have you ever heard the saying, 'If you use someone, trust them. If you don't trust them, don't use them'? If you trust us, we'll give it everything we have. If you don't trust us..." She took a

studied her flushed face, his lips curling into a faint

bringing them here to use them as hostages. Connor is truly a handful for my mom. Aunt Helen is her confidante, the only one who can bring her joy. As for Ryan, I know he's a good boy. It's time for Connor to see what a truly intelligent and diligent