Chapter 1303

Ever since her confinement to Everspring Palace, Kylie hadn't ventured beyond its gates. However, years of courtly maneuvering ensured she remained informed of major events, even in isolation. Today's whispers concerned Jeremiah's audacious proposal: that Salvador personally lead the army.

The news sent a thrill through her. If Salvador commanded the army, he'd inevitably appoint a crown prince before his departure. And currently, only Connor, the eldest prince, was a viable candidate. The Hell Monarch's sudden illness, it seemed, was fortuitous.

Yet, initial excitement gave way to cautious assessment. This promising development might not materialize. Salvador had been absent from the battlefield for years. Would he truly risk his safety now? Furthermore, capable generals remained at court, and Yuvan's rebellion simmered.

Still, the possibility lingered. Salvador's leadership would galvanize popular support, crippling Yuvan's waning rebellion. Her thoughts raced, keeping her restless throughout the night.

Before dawn, hurried footsteps shattered the silence. Talia, her maid, burst in, her face etched with urgency. "Your Majesty, the king has sent someone to escort the eldest prince."

Kylie sprang from bed, her voice barely a tremor. "Quickly, help me dress."

During her confinement, Salvador hadn't visited, nor had he summoned Connor. Patience had been tested, but rash action avoided. She'd waited for the opportune moment.

This turmoil—the precarious balance of internal strife and external threats—presented a divine opportunity for her and her son.

Once dressed, a thought struck her. "Did His Majesty summon me as well?"

"No, Your Majesty," Talia replied. "He only instructed Mr. Walker to escort Prince Connor."

Disappointment washed over Kylie. If Salvador prepared for war, managing the royal harem would naturally fall to her. Only she could maintain order and quell the concubines' ambitions. Leaving such authority in Sylvia and Grace's hands would be perilous.

Her brow furrowed. "Where's Lydia?"

"Your Majesty, Ms. Lydia is comforting Prince Connor," Talia reported, a touch exasperated. "It's still early—he refuses to rise."

Kylie glanced at the nascent dawn. "No surprise. It's barely morning."

She'd indulged Connor's whims. Though improvements had been made, he still avoided early rising and study. Knowing the gravity of the situation, she decided to visit his chambers personally. She needed to ensure he didn't upset Salvador.

Radiant Hall, Connor's residence, was filled with the sounds of a tantrum. Concerned, Kylie quickened her pace.

Inside, she found Lydia holding Connor, a maid attempting to comb his hair.

"Lydia!" Kylie's sharp tone cut through the commotion. "You cannot allow this, especially with Mr. Walker waiting. What if he witnesses this disgrace?"

"Don't worry, Your Majesty," Lydia replied quickly. "I've kept Mr. Walker occupied."

Connor, nestled in Lydia's arms, his face flushed, had evidently thrown a fit when roused. Now, half-asleep, he grudgingly submitted to the combing.

Seeing his mother, he opened his eyes, scowled, and mumbled, "Mom, I don't want to get up. I don't want to see Dad."

"Enough nonsense!" Kylie's voice was firm, her expression severe. "What have I taught you? You must spend time with your father, behave properly, and never act out. Do you understand?"

Connor kicked and punched Lydia. "I hate this! I was excused from morning greetings, and now I have to go again! It's annoying!"

Kylie's patience frayed; her hand instinctively rose, but she checked herself. Punishment now would escalate his tantrum. His outbursts were tolerable in Everspring Palace, but not today. He was about to meet Salvador.

Lowering her hand, she knelt, softening her tone. "Behave, and I'll let you skip study hall for a few days. How does that sound?"

Connor's eyes brightened. "Really? Mom, you can't lie to me!"

"Obedience will be rewarded," Kylie assured him. She gestured for the maid to hurry. Salvador awaited, and she couldn't afford his impatience.