Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)
Chapter 720

After Rafael left, Derek entered the royal study and said, “There’s only an hour left before court begins, Your Majesty. Allow me to assist you in changing your attire.”

“Alright. Let’s do it here,” Salvador replied, gesturing with his hand.

Derek stepped outside and called out, “Bring the griffin cloak. The king will change now.”

Before long, palace attendants entered, carrying the griffin motive cloak and a golden–threaded attire.

Derek dismissed everyone and personally helped the king change. Although Salvador’s expression still held anger, it had softened considerably since receiving the news.

Salvador looked at Derek and asked, “You don’t understand why I appointed Carissa as the commander of the Mystic Army, do you?”

As Derek–adjusted the belt, he replied, “Your wisdom is unmatched, Your Majesty. You must have your reasons for making this decision.”

–

Salvador spread his arms to allow Derek to adjust the underarms of his attire, his tone cool as he said, ‘ What could possibly motivate Aunt Eleanor to rebel? What benefit would she gain from overthrowing me?” “I think Grand Princess Eleanor is quite confused. You have treated her very well,” Derek replied. “The least likely person to rebel has gotten involved in a rebellion. Who can I trust?” Salvador exclaimed, his sleeves fluttering as he felt the simmering anger that refused to dissipate.

“But this matter should have nothing to do with the Hell Monarch’s household,” Derek argued.

““Of course it has nothing to do with them. Otherwise, why would Rafael have led people into Harmony Palace?” The light in the room highlighted Salvador’s handsome features as his brow furrowed deeply. “I don’t suspect him, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. If someone stirs up trouble and he has ulterior motives, he could truly achieve something.”

“Then, why would you let Lady Carissa command the Mystic Army and give her real power?” Derek asked, perplexed. “Isn’t that equivalent to granting him authority?”

Salvador shook his head with a chilling gaze. “The Mystic Army is largely composed of Rafael’s chosen men who are all loyal to him. Even though he currently holds the position of Chief Judge and isn’t involved in the army’s affairs, everyone except my crown guards will still follow him as soon as he gives a command.”

Derek seemed to grasp the situation, realization dawning on his face. “So, Your Majesty, you want to ride the wave and officially hand over the Mystic Army to them?”

Salvador let out a scoff as he narrowed his eyes. “Wouldn’t that be redundant? Do you think women lack ambition? Carissa returned with military achievements, only to be confined to the inner household. “She’s a capable person. She’s backed by the many factions of Meadow Ridge, and is the legitimate daughter of Duke of Northwatch. Although Ryan will inherit the Duke of Northwatch’s title, she cares for him and will undoubtedly fight to lay a solid foundation for him. She will definitely hold the command of the Mystic Army firmly in her hands. A clever woman won’t be content to rely on a man. If she develops ambition, she could easily overshadow my brother.”

“So, Your Majesty believes she sees power as more important than her affection for His Highness,” Derek commented, finally understanding.

Salvador adjusted his crown, authority radiating from him. “Perhaps she doesn’t, but what if she does? I must give her this opportunity. If she tastes power, she won’t be satisfied hiding behind a man, even if that man is the king. Being a powerful minister is far more appealing than being queen.

“And all this time, my brother has been the one to show interest in her. She probably hasn’t developed any real feelings for him. A woman’s ambition often hinges on her ruthlessness. Her great success in capturing llyrian and Simonton City shows her strong and decisive methods.

“A woman like her shouldn’t hide behind a man. She should step forward and achieve more significant things. Should she oversee the Mystic Army from the summit of the court, or manage the inner household and the harem? She will come to understand that in time.

“If my brother lacks any other ambitions, having her by my side will be advantageous. She could become a sharp blade in my hand, aimed at the treacherous ministers who seek to usurp the throne.”

Having dressed completely, Salvador sat down again with a calm demeanor.

“Besides, the Duke of Northwatch’s family is renowned for their loyalty. Carissa won’t disappoint me. Don’t you agree?

Derek smiled. “You’re absolutely right, Your Majesty. Lady… No, Commander Sinclair will certainly not let you down.”

As Derek turned to leave, he sighed quietly.

If Salvador genuinely wanted to promote Carissa, it would have happened long ago. His reasoning aside, him choosing to do so at such a critical juncture meant he also wanted her to investigate the rebellious traitors.

Salvador was convinced the Hell Monarch’s household knew something. Once Carissa began her inquiry, she would undoubtedly leverage the information she had to uncover the truth and would yield exceptional results.

Simply put, Salvador wanted to utilize the Hell Monarch’s household. At the same time, he couldn’t bring himself to trust Rafael.

Derek hoped that when the time came to deal with the treasonous ministers, Salvador wouldn’t turn against Rafael and Carissa once the threat was eliminated.