Chapter 1095
When Yuvan brought his family to bid farewell to the Queen Dowager, Salvador was also present. The uncle and nephew harbored unspoken thoughts, a tension Victoria perceived but chose to ignore. She engaged them in light conversation, reminiscing about the past.
With a sigh, Victoria recounted the late King Sigmund's fondness for Yuvan and his brothers in their youth. "During an autumn hunt," she said, her voice nostalgic, "you brothers accompanied King Sigmund. You were so full of youthful energy, Yuvan. You insisted on riding a fiery horse as tall as yourself."
She continued, her gaze distant, "Who could have guessed the horse would go mad, nearly throwing you off? King Sigmund rushed to your side, whirling his riding crop to keep you steady, but you both fell. Luckily, he shielded you with his body. You weren't seriously injured, but his back was cut open by rocks, leaving deep, bleeding wounds."
Her expression softened. "He always said he cherished you most among his brothers. You were clever, considerate, and dutiful. He always shared his good fortune with you. When dividing the lands, he gave you Valken, hoping for a peaceful, prosperous life for you."
Victoria smiled faintly, knowing her words wouldn't change anything. Yet, Sigmund's intentions deserved to be acknowledged. Whether Yuvan accepted his brother's affection was his decision.
Yuvan appeared deeply reflective, even shedding tears. Salvador, however, remained detached. He abruptly turned to Randall, asking, "I hear you're well-read and knowledgeable. Have you considered court service?"
Randall froze, surprised. Before he could answer, Yuvan interjected, "Randall, thank His Majesty for his kindness!"
Randall knelt. "Your Majesty, I humbly thank you for your gracious offer. If I can serve, I gladly will. But I lack the talent and skill for official duties. I am unworthy."
"Skills can be learned," Salvador stated firmly. "If you lack ability, stay in the capital and learn. Meanwhile, care for your grandmother. And, since you're unmarried, I'll find a suitable match for you."
Salvador thus settled the matter, leaving Randall no choice. Randall, Yuvan's eldest son by a concubine, had been raised by Avis. His mother had been a maidservant. Fiona, Yuvan's wife, had two sons: Lucian, brash and reckless; and Raymond, greedy and womanizing—neither reliable. Randall, therefore, possessed the best potential among Yuvan's sons.
Salvador, however, wasn't one to judge solely by appearances.
Randall glanced at his father, hiding his bitterness. He knelt, saying, "Thank you, Your Majesty." He understood that remaining in the capital wasn't about learning or marriage; it was about serving as a hostage. Yuvan had explained this, but Randall had pieced together the truth. This understanding had kept him from rushing into marriage.
If Yuvan succeeded, Randall might become a prince, perhaps even a county duke. But if Yuvan failed, Randall's life would be forfeit. Why involve an innocent woman in such uncertainty?
Randall believed his father's chances were slim. The kingdom was stable and its military strong. Yet, Yuvan, blinded by ambition, believed victory was his.
Victoria and Salvador had said all that needed saying. Further pleasantries were pointless. Salvador lacked precise knowledge of Yuvan's private army, supplies, or weaponry. He wouldn't act rashly. Without concrete evidence, executing Yuvan would be unjustified, tarnishing the royal family's reputation. Holding Yuvan indefinitely could backfire, allowing his followers to act.