Chapter 1058

Kylie’s words enraged Salvador. He swept a cup from the table, shattering it on the floor. The sharp clang silenced Kylie. She considered his reaction excessive. "Your Majesty," she protested, "it was a careless remark from a child! It didn't hurt Ryan. Why such an outburst?"

Salvador's voice was glacial. "If you prefer Connor remain a child without responsibility, I shall grant your wish."

Kylie was stunned. "Your Majesty, you can't say such things! The ministers will be alarmed!"

Salvador sneered. "And what's wrong with that? You've clearly shown little hope for him. If he's to be a lazy prince, so be it."

Kylie's vision blurred. A cold dread gripped her. She had forgotten the dangers of power. How could she expect everything simply due to her status?

Trembling, she pleaded, "Your Majesty, it's my fault. I failed as a mother. I spoiled him. If he lacks the ability or temperament for his duties, I blame only myself. I will oversee his education, ensuring he becomes compassionate and wise—"

Salvador cut her short. "I want no empty promises. You have one year. If, by then, he remains reckless and ignorant, he will no longer merit my consideration."

Relief mingled with apprehension at the deadline. "Yes, Your Majesty. I understand."

Salvador's gaze remained cold and piercing. "Good. Tomorrow, he will see me. I want to examine his palms."

Kylie’s stomach churned, remembering the twenty strikes to Connor’s palms. Her heart ached for her son. How could he endure such punishment? Resentment towards Carissa and Ryan flared. Connor was still a child. Was this punishment truly warranted?

Meanwhile, Barrett remained in the royal chapel, overseeing Connor's punishment. He knew only that Connor was to hear tales of Hector’s battles. The Duke of Northwatch was a revered figure to Barrett. As he recounted Hector's battles, Barrett collapsed, weeping, startling Connor. Outside, Derek remained impassive; regretful tears were useless.

When Connor returned to Everspring Palace, Kylie’s face was cold. The twenty strikes were to be administered without leniency, especially given Connor's upcoming meeting with the king. The harsh discipline left Connor’s hands raw and bleeding. He cried, his face turning purple. "I said one wrong thing… Why is Dad so heartless? I’m his son! But Ryan is nothing—nothing at all!"

The servants wept. How could the king punish him so severely? Kylie’s heart ached, but she couldn't show it. Secretly wiping away a tear, she summoned the royal physician. She knew she couldn't appear soft. Not everyone in Everspring Palace was loyal. She must remain stern.

"You heard of the Duke of Northwatch’s feats. How can you still speak like this? After your meeting with your father tomorrow, you will again kneel at the royal chapel."

Another round of sobs wracked Connor. His crying subsided only after half an hour.

Carissa playfully tapped Ryan's arm. "You're still young—how old are you, then?"

Ryan, sensing the question's implication, replied, "I'm older than Connor. The queen said I must live each day joyfully. Our ancestors and parents bore burdens so we could be happy. If we are happy, it is their happiness too."

Carissa's heart ached. Though meant to comfort, they knew they could do little for their lost family. Honoring them meant living joyfully—that was their family's wish. They walked hand in hand.

Ryan said, "I need to see Lady Helen. I'll return to the academy early tomorrow. I can’t neglect her."

Carissa chuckled at his seriousness. "Alright, I’ll take you to her." Helen had been sulking since her return; Gillian had tried to comfort her.