Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)
Chapter 260

Rafael was the commander of the Hell Monarch Army. Even when there was no war and he remained in the capital, the Hell Monarch Army was stationed not far away. Also, military affairs were always demanding, often requiring him to lead training exercises.

How could he possibly take on the role of Minister of Justice at the same time?

Moreover, the Ministry of Justice was responsible for overseeing criminal cases, conducting reviews of death sentences, and handling important legal matters most of which were administrative work.

He was a military general, but he was appointed as Minister of Justice? Further, why was he also given command of the Mystic Army?

With both a civilian and a military position on his shoulders, not to mention his role as the commander of the Hell Monarch Army, how could he manage it all?

He said indifferently, "I've already handed over the military seal and authority. For now, Oliver Prince will command the Hell Monarch Army."

Oliver Prince?

Carissa knew of him. Oliver was the Earl of Silverstone, a man who once held significant influence in the military. However, after being injured in battle, he could no longer fight on the front lines. He had since inherited his grandfather's title and lived a reclusive life.

It seemed like the Earl of Silverstone's household was headed toward decline. Yet, out of nowhere, Salvador had chosen to elevate him.

But why appoint a disabled general to command the Hell Monarch Army at this time? And why replace the current commander? Rafael had just returned victorious.

Even if he handed over the military seal, he could still remain as the commander of the Hell Monarch Army.

As Carissa thought it over, she began to grasp the situation and couldn't help but blurt out, "Is His Majesty wary of you?"

Rafael's eyes were as deep as an abyss. "It's not that he's wary-he just doesn't want any rumors or misunderstandings that could damage our brotherly bond." Carissa fully understood.

But she was also confused. "Then why did you marry me? If His Majesty is wary of you, marrying me would only make it worse."

She was the daughter of the Duke of Northwatch, a respected general herself with military achievements and the loyalty of the troops. Whether it was the Hell Monarch Army, the Mystic Army, or the Sinclair Army that her father once led, they all held her in high regard.

Rafael had relinquished his military authority precisely to ease Salvador's concerns. But marrying her- despite giving up command-would hardly put Salvador's mind completely at ease.

Was there something she didn't know?

And did this have anything to do with Salvador's edict that she marry within three months?

Rafael knew she was perceptive and would inevitably piece things together, so he explained, "No matter whom I marry, my brother will think what he thinks. Given my status, could I possibly marry a commoner or the daughter of some low-ranking official?"

While the reasoning made sense, Carissa felt it wasn't as straightforward as that.

She could lead troops, something other noblewomen couldn't do. Marrying her was riskier for him.

"Did you propose to marry me because you knew I didn't want to enter the palace as a concubine? Were you trying to help me?" Carissa quickly guessed. "His Majesty didn't actually force you to marry, did he? You're helping me."

Sharp as always-wasn't that exactly what he expected?

Rafael smiled wryly. "You're mistaken. Even if His Majesty hadn't pressured me, I returned triumphant. In doing so, received over a hundred marriage proposals. Many women are eager to marry me, Refusing any one of them would offend someone. I'm not afraid of offending people, but I'd rather not if I can avoid it. The best way to navigate this was to settle the matter quickly.

"As for why I chose you," Rafael's smile turned more helpless. "You're my senior. You were being forced into the palace, and I was being put on the spot. So, why not make a match out of it? That's what I thought.

Lying was exhausting-he couldn't exactly tell her that marrying her meant he had to relinquish his military power, could he?

That was something he absolutely couldn't say.

If she knew, she would never agree to marry him.

Even if the truth couldn't be hidden forever, it would be better for her to replace out after they were married.

There were many things she should only learn once they were truly husband and wife, and it would be preferably after they had consummated the marriage.