Chapter 1056

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 considered this an excellent idea, especially the part about sending Barrett.

After Derek withdrew, Salvador stared at the reports before him, his mind drifting. In recent years, calls to appoint the crown prince had grown louder. Throughout history, competition for the title had been fierce, involving the royal family, the palace, noble families, and various 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 and legitimate son, his position was unchallenged. Therefore, there was no doubt he would be appointed crown prince.

Kylie and her family had attempted to test the waters, but Salvador remained undecided. The reason was simple: Connor lacked the ability and temperament suited to being crown prince. Salvador harbored many anxieties about entrusting the kingdom to him.

Fortunately, Connor was young, and the matter could be delayed. However, as king, Salvador's gaze extended beyond the present, toward the future. Though he had a legitimate eldest son, the boy was unsuited for the role. This left Salvador disheartened.

At lunch, the table held exquisite dishes. However, Victoria had specifically instructed that no one wait on her. She dismissed everyone, leaving them standing by the door. Since no one served Victoria, Salvador dared not eat either and stood beside her, attending to her needs.

Ryan considered standing, but Victoria gently urged him to remain seated. She personally served him food, speaking softly to calm his nerves.

"Mom, this is your favorite. Eat a bit more," Salvador said quietly.

Victoria remained silent. Whatever Salvador offered, she ate without protest, yet her appetite seemed subdued. She barely touched her food, focusing instead on encouraging Ryan to eat.

Ryan, though nervous, showed no outward sign. His hands held the cutlery steady, without a tremor. He thanked her politely and ate slowly, his manners impeccable. Even Salvador admired Ryan's composure; the boy was remarkably steady for his age.

Once the meal ended, Victoria's mood had noticeably improved. She summoned young servants to take Ryan outside to play, leaving Salvador alone with her.

Victoria's expression remained warm as she spoke. "Do you think Ryan is promising?"

Salvador nodded, his approval evident. "He's promising and well-behaved."

"I remember you and the second son of the Sinclair family were very close," Victoria said.

Mentioning old friends brought a pang to Salvador's heart. "Yes, we were of similar age. He was my study partner in the palace for a year, and we fought side by side on the battlefield. I considered him a brother."

"He was your brother, your comrade, and your subject. The Sinclair family's contributions to Starhaven are immeasurable. You know this better than anyone. Now, Ryan is the last of the Duke of Northwatch's family to carry on their name. As his honorary uncle, you must protect him from anyone who dares to bully him, especially your son. Connor's words were unforgivable. Don't be too quick to blame the queen. If blame is to be assigned, it should begin with you. You've failed to teach Connor the significance of the Sinclair family to Starhaven."

Victoria took a slow sip of coffee, her eyes studying his face. When she saw a trace of guilt, she continued. "Since your ascension to the throne, I've refrained from interfering in your decisions. I know all your decisions are carefully considered, and often, you have no choice. But when it comes to Ryan, that is different. I not only ask that you do not allow anyone to harm him—I demand that you protect him."