Her Graceful War Song novel 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."

Salvador nodded thoughtfully, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth, though it did little to soften the coldness in his eyes. "You make a compelling argument, but I would be entrusting the entire country—and my own life—to you all. Do you understand how heavy this trust is?"

Carissa's response was immediate and without hesitation. "I will give my all, even if it costs my life."

Salvador studied her for a long moment before lowering his gaze to organize his papers.

"I agree. By the way, the queen dowager is now raising Connor, which is a great burden on her. I plan to bring Aunt Helen and Ryan into the palace. Aunt Helen will stay with my mom, and Ryan will act as Connor's study partner."

He didn't ask for her opinion. His words were declarative.

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

He was giving her command of the military, so he must feel insecure. This was normal!

"Fine, then. You fight begrudgingly. But tomorrow, have Aunt Helen and Ryan come to the palace. I'm not 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 child looks like."

Carissa bit back an angry retort.

This hypocritical king!

Salvador's smile widened, and his gaze softened slightly.

"Look at you, getting so worked up—there’s no need for that. Putting aside the roles of ruler and subject, you should call me 'big brother'. Isn't this a family matter? You don't need to speak of hostages—it only damages our relationship. If I really wanted to hold this against you, I could punish you for disrespect with what you just said."

Carissa fought the urge to lash out, her fists clenched tightly. "Your Majesty, promise me that Ryan will not have to put up with Prince Connor's bullying."

Salvador's grin deepened, his tone light. "No one will dare to bully Ryan. If Connor dares to speak disrespectfully, I'll smack his mouth!"