Chapter 820

Since Barrett had recently assumed office, he worked longer hours. He personally inspected most areas of the palace, excluding the inner court. When not on patrol, he waited by the royal study door or at the Central Command Office, ready to submit his logs at shift changes.

Guards were required to record their patrol findings, noting any irregularities. Even normal patrols required documentation. Barrett could leave the palace at 5:00 p.m., but often stayed until nearly 7:00 p.m.

Leaving the palace, he unexpectedly encountered Yuvan. Knowing the prince usually arrived early and left before closing, Barrett found this unusual.

“Your Highness,” Barrett greeted, bowing slightly.

Yuvan smiled. “General Warren, congratulations on your promotion. I always believed in your capabilities; your talents were simply overlooked. I wish you continued success.”

Barrett felt overwhelmed. “Thank you, Your Highness.”

With hands clasped behind his back, Yuvan continued, “When you have time, please visit Edgeview Estate with your wife. My wife is unfamiliar with the capital, and your wife’s assistance would be appreciated.”

“I’m grateful, but my wife is pregnant, so travel may be inconvenient,” Barrett replied.

“Of course. Then, perhaps a visit for a chat? We could catch up,” Yuvan suggested cheerfully. “Congratulations again—a promotion and a baby on the way!”

Barrett found Yuvan amiable, but wondered if his friendliness was excessive. He thanked the prince and changed the subject. “Why are you leaving so early, Your Highness?”

Yuvan stretched. “My mother has taken her medicine and is resting; I’m tired. Otherwise, I would have invited you to the estate for a drink. I know of your significant contributions at Victory Pass and the Southern Frontier.”

The mention of Victory Pass made Barrett uneasy. “I will visit when I can.”

Yuvan smiled but said nothing more. They rode together a short distance before parting. Carissa followed, overhearing Yuvan’s praise of Barrett.

Barrett’s expression was a mix of surprise and caution. While not foolish, the approval of such a high-ranking official was flattering.

Returning home, Carissa told Rafael. She quickly added, “He’s my subordinate and now the Crown Guard commander. That’s why I’m concerned—or attentive, rather.”

Rafael chuckled, lightly pinching her cheek. “No need to explain. Do you think I'm that petty? You should be cautious about anyone close to Yuvan. You're right to be observant.”

Carissa linked arms with him. “I just didn’t want you to misunderstand. You’re not petty.”

Rafael removed his cloak, giving it to Sydney, then pulled Carissa down to sit beside him. “I hear you’re planning to assess the Royal Guard. Will you be personally involved?”

“Word travels fast. Did Michael tell you?”

“He did. Is it because Alistair challenged you?”

Carissa laughed. “Not entirely. The treason case has kept me busy, preventing any assessments. The Civil Department evaluation is coming up; as their superior, I must write performance reviews. This will include the Royal Guard, Garrison Unit, Capital Guard, and Crown Guard.”

“Surely the assessment won’t be limited to martial skills?” Rafael asked.

Carissa clapped her hands, a playful sparkle in her eyes. “Not strictly, but martial skills are the priority. Alistair shouldn’t be a problem; he managed the Royal Guard. But with a new commander, resentment is likely. He needs to adjust to having a superior; otherwise, the Royal Guard won’t be cooperative. In an emergency, this could be disastrous.”

Rafael chuckled. “Sounds like someone’s about to get a beating.”