Chapter 1001

Helen did not enjoy dining with her son. Their tastes differed greatly, and their conversations rarely extended beyond a few words. Victoria, however, insisted that Helen join him for a meal once a month, reminding her repeatedly that failure to do so would invite gossip among the servants about Rafael and Carissa's supposed disrespect.

Helen sighed. Such was life—a constant burden of obligations, preventing her from following her heart's desires. Gillian often said Helen didn't appreciate her blessings, but Helen didn't believe a truly carefree life existed. Even the best of times held worries, and even the wealthiest and most powerful individuals carried burdens.

She would savor the good moments, and when troubled, she would keep her worries to herself; she felt entitled to her private anxieties.

Rafael and Carissa were not convivial, so they often invited Violet to join them. Violet possessed a talent for enlivening even the dullest meal.

Ultimately, Barrett did not resign. A few days later, he reluctantly donned his official attire and resumed his duties. Salvador summoned him again, hoping to see a spark of determination, but found none. Barrett looked like a defeated dog, radiating misery and despair.

Salvador was furious. He had hoped to mold Barrett into a loyal and useful minister, believing a battle-hardened military man who had faced hardship and banditry could be trusted. At least, he assumed Barrett was loyal. Now, Salvador realized that loyalty, without capability, was meaningless.

He had hoped Barrett would revitalize the Nightsteel Guard and bring the Royal Guard under its command. But relying on Barrett proved futile. Everything still hinged on Ian.

While Ian served as commander, he had other responsibilities. With Barrett proving so ineffectual, they needed to promote another deputy commander.

After dismissing Barrett, Salvador summoned Ian, who recommended two men: Galen and Kevin.

“Your Majesty, Galen and Kevin have served you since your time as crown prince. Galen is sharp and quick-witted, while Kevin is loyal and ambitious. He is currently Ms. Spencer’s apprentice and has steadily improved his martial skills.”

Salvador raised an eyebrow. “Kevin Ziegler, from the Marquis of Elderglen’s family? His cousin is Lawrence, the Earl of Dunewind, is it not?”

“Correct, Your Majesty,” Ian confirmed.

Salvador paused, considering his options before asking, “I recall someone from the Septimus Tetra reconnaissance team joining the Nightsteel Guard—what was his name?”

“Ivan Lewis, Your Majesty. He is currently a second-rank guard in the Nightsteel Guard, stationed at Regal Gate.”

Salvador narrowed his eyes, his long fingers tapping lightly on the table as he weighed the pros and cons of Galen and Kevin.

Galen was capable but too cunning. The Nightsteel Guard did not need such a man promoted at this time.

Kevin, from the Marquis of Elderglen’s family, presented another consideration. Rafael had once saved Lawrence's life, and Kevin's apprenticeship under Violet linked him to Rafael's household. This posed risks.

“How ambitious is Kevin?” Salvador asked.

“Very ambitious, Your Majesty. He actively sought a martial arts mentor to enhance his prospects. To my knowledge, his family relationship is strained, and he is driven to make a name for himself,” Ian replied respectfully.

Ambition and self-interest—precisely what Salvador needed. With those traits, the risks were acceptable.

Salvador made his decision. “Kevin it is. Promote Ivan Lewis to first-rank Nightsteel Guard and assign him to the Vanguard Unit. Galen will command the Vanguard Unit.”

Had Kevin been Carissa's apprentice, the risk would have been too great. However, with Violet as his mentor, and the connection being through the Spencer family, Salvador felt confident in managing the situation.