Chapter 720 (+25 Bonus)

After Rafael left, Derek entered the royal study and said, "Your Majesty, court begins in an hour. May I assist you with your attire?"

"Very well. Let's do it here," Salvador replied, gesturing.

Derek stepped outside and called, "Bring the griffin cloak. The king will change now."

Soon, palace attendants arrived with the griffin-motif cloak and a golden-threaded robe. Derek dismissed them and personally helped the king dress. Although Salvador's anger remained, it had softened considerably since receiving the news.

Salvador looked at Derek and asked, "You don't understand why I appointed Carissa commander of the Mystic Army, do you?"

As Derek adjusted the belt, he replied, "Your wisdom is unmatched, Your Majesty. You must have your reasons."

Salvador spread his arms, allowing Derek to adjust the robe's underarms. His tone was cool as he said, "What could possibly motivate Aunt Eleanor to rebel? What would she gain by overthrowing me?"

"Grand Princess Eleanor seems confused, Your Majesty. You've treated her very well," Derek replied. "The least likely person to rebel is involved! Who can I trust?" Salvador exclaimed, his sleeves fluttering as simmering anger persisted.

"But this has nothing to do with the Hell Monarch's household," Derek argued.

"Of course not! Otherwise, why would Rafael have led people into Harmony Palace?" The room's light highlighted Salvador's handsome features as his brow furrowed. "I don't suspect him, but it's better to be safe than sorry. If someone stirs up trouble and he has ulterior motives, he could achieve something significant."

"Then why give Lady Carissa command of the Mystic Army and real power?" Derek asked, perplexed. "Isn't that equivalent to granting him authority?"

Salvador shook his head, his gaze chilling. "The Mystic Army is largely composed of Rafael's men, loyal to him. Even as Chief Judge, he's not involved in army affairs, but everyone except my crown guards will follow him if he commands it."

Realization dawned on Derek's face. "Your Majesty, you want to ride the wave and officially hand the Mystic Army over to them?"

Salvador scoffed, narrowing his eyes. "Redundant? Do you think women lack ambition? Carissa returned with military achievements, only to be confined to the inner household. She's capable, backed by Meadow Ridge's factions, and the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Northwatch. While Ryan will inherit the title, she cares for him and will fight for him. She'll command the Mystic Army firmly. A clever woman won't rely on a man. If ambitious, she could overshadow my brother."

(+25 Bonus) Chapter 720

"So, Your Majesty believes she values power over her affection for His Highness," Derek commented, understanding.

Salvador adjusted his crown, authority radiating from him. "Perhaps not, but what if she does? I must give her this opportunity. If she tastes power, she won't be satisfied hiding behind a man, even a king. Being a powerful minister is far more appealing than being queen. My brother has shown interest in her, but she likely hasn't developed real feelings for him. A woman's ambition often hinges on ruthlessness. Her success in capturing Illyrian and Simonton City shows her strong, decisive methods. She shouldn't hide behind a man; she should achieve more. Should she oversee the Mystic Army from the court, or manage the inner household? Time will tell. If my brother lacks ambition, having her by my side is advantageous. She could become a sharp blade against treacherous ministers."

Fully dressed, Salvador sat down calmly.

"Besides, the Duke of Northwatch's family is known for loyalty. Carissa won't disappoint me. Don't you agree?"

Derek smiled. "Absolutely, Your Majesty. Lady—no, Commander Sinclair will not let you down."

As Derek left, he sighed quietly. If Salvador truly wanted to promote Carissa, he would have done so long ago. His reasoning aside, choosing this critical juncture suggests he wants her to investigate the rebels. He's convinced the Hell Monarch's household knows something. Carissa's inquiry will leverage her information to uncover the truth and yield exceptional results. Simply put, Salvador wants to utilize the Hell Monarch's household, but he can't trust Rafael. Derek hoped Salvador wouldn't turn against Rafael and Carissa once the threat was eliminated.