Chapter 1302
An urgent sealed report revealed Oliver's desertion before the battle. Rumors spread rapidly across the Southern Frontier, severely undermining troop morale. Desertions increased, and even veteran soldiers displayed unease and retreated.
Louis's report, requesting a new commander to stabilize the situation, arrived with the urgent sealed report. Without strong leadership, the loss of the Southern Frontier seemed inevitable.
Salvador's face darkened as he surveyed the assembled officials. "Nominate a general to command the Southern Frontier," he ordered curtly.
Hesitant glances were exchanged. Besides the Hell Monarch, only Dominic Sullivan possessed the necessary reputation for such a crucial campaign. Unfortunately, Dominic had been disgraced. The remaining generals—Tyler, Thomas, and Joseph Carter—lacked the authority to quell the chaos or restore morale.
The Hell Monarch was the obvious choice, but his recent illness complicated matters. Could someone in poor health endure the battlefield's rigors? With the Sandorians at the gates, immediate action was imperative. The Hell Monarch's condition rendered him unsuitable.
Even if Dominic were reinstated and dispatched from Victory Pass, his arrival would take at least half a month, even with the fastest horses. Time was a luxury they could not afford. Moreover, he was now elderly.
Aside from these two, who could undertake such a monumental task? A few officials considered, but dared not voice, another option. Their gazes briefly shifted toward Salvador. The king leading the army would undoubtedly boost morale, but the risk was immense. His death on the battlefield would result in an unimaginable crime.
The tension persisted until Jeremiah broke the silence. "How is the Hell Monarch's condition? Any improvement?"
Salvador's voice was sharp. "He has gone to Meadow Ridge to recuperate."
This news surprised everyone; they had assumed Rafael was recovering at his estate. Salvador's announcement stunned the officials.
"He traveled to Meadow Ridge? Has his condition improved?" Malcolm inquired cautiously, noting a subtle shift in Salvador's expression.
"Forget the Hell Monarch," Salvador replied coldly. "Aside from him, who else is there?"
Jeremiah stepped forward, voicing the unspoken thought. "To stabilize the Southern Frontier and restore morale, there's only one option—Your Majesty must lead the army."
Silence descended. The silence was profound, amplifying even the slightest sound. While many shared this sentiment, Jeremiah's directness, bypassing careful reasoning, surprised them. In truth, no reasoning was necessary; the gravity of the situation was clear to all.
Salvador had considered leading the troops himself. Indeed, he'd already eliminated other candidates. The two most suitable options were no longer viable—the opportunity had been missed. A decisive decision should have been made when Davis raised the issue.
Now, Rafael had likely departed for Valken. The thought fueled Salvador's frustration and regret. His chest tightened, his blood boiled, and bitterness filled his mouth.
More profoundly, a deep sadness enveloped him. Rafael was his brother. Former doubts no longer plagued him with guilt; instead, regret for inaction and frustration over the failed attempt to utilize Rafael, unaware of his true ambitions, consumed him.
Suspicions had solidified into certainty. Yet, Salvador dared not act against those at the Hell Monarch Estate. Arresting Rafael's people would only provide him an excuse to proceed with his plans.
Leading the army was a last resort. He couldn't leave the capital unless absolutely necessary. If he went to the battlefield, the kingdom would be kingless. Rafael would then face no resistance in seizing the throne, crowning himself king—perhaps within three months.
Observing Salvador's grim expression and silence, the officials assumed he was considering Jeremiah's proposal. They were unaware of his internal turmoil, trapped in a cycle of anger and despair.
They awaited Jeremiah's formal request for the king's command, planning to follow suit. But Jeremiah remained silent.
Tension mounted as uncertain glances were exchanged. Some began considering the appointment of a crown prince.