Chapter 1002

Kevin sought a martial arts mentor for two reasons: a genuine love of martial arts, and its potential to accelerate his promotion. He was patient, willing to wait five years if his initial three-year plan failed, and ten if that proved insufficient. His extended proximity to Salvador provided valuable experience, and he believed persistence would ultimately lead to success. He aimed for deputy captain, then captain, within three to five years.

Therefore, Salvador's summons offering him the position of deputy commander of the Nightsteel Guard left Kevin completely stunned. He'd never been so taken aback in court.

Ian, with a sharp kick and a laugh, jolted him back to reality. "What are you daydreaming about? Don't you know how to thank His Majesty?"

Kevin, hands trembling, bowed deeply. "Your Majesty, I thank you for your trust and this promotion. I will remain loyal and devoted, giving my all in service."

Salvador, clearly pleased, smiled. "Ian, take him out. Have him buy drinks for your men to celebrate."

Three men had been promoted: Kevin, overjoyed; Galen, slightly disappointed; and Ivan, showing no emotion whatsoever. A former spy, Ivan was adept at concealing his feelings.

Kevin eagerly treated his comrades. Walking, he felt as if he were floating, still struggling to believe what had happened. He'd planned a slow ascent; instead, fate had delivered a stunning reward.

Even in his daze, he asked, "Wasn't Deputy Commander Warren the deputy commander? Why was I promoted?"

Ian chuckled. "He remains a deputy commander, overseeing the Griffinblade, Shieldbearer, and Skystriker Units. You'll command the Vanguard, Eastguard, and Westguard Units. Each of you will oversee three units. I know you're capable. If you're unsure about any decisions, consult me or your mentor."

Kevin's apprenticeship with Violet was a poorly kept secret due to their frequent training sessions. "I can't trouble my mentor with my work. If I don't understand something, I'll come to you, Commander Ian."

Ian laughed, scolding him. "You fool! You have excellent connections and don't know how to use them. Your mentor and Commander Sinclair are close. If she doesn't know, she'll ask Sinclair. They'll guide you. But remember, never forget your beginnings. His Majesty's promotion made you deputy commander. Without it, with your qualifications, you could have waited three, five, or even seven years and still not reached captain."

Kevin, laughing, expressed gratitude to both Salvador and Ian. He smoothly shifted the conversation.

When Salvador was crown prince, Kevin served as a low-ranking guard. While achieving little, he'd met many people, experiencing court life and learning its intricacies.

The suggestion to seek help from Violet and Carissa hinted at a larger scheme behind his promotion. Kevin wasn't troubled; this advancement aligned with his goals. He could prove himself worthy. Salvador would recognize his abilities, regardless of his mentor.

Even if Salvador remained skeptical, Kevin would continue following his principles, living without regret.

That evening, Kevin treated Barrett, Galen, and Ivan. Barrett, mostly silent, drank heavily. Galen, with a touch of bitterness, remarked, "Tonight, we're brothers-in-arms. Tomorrow, we call you Deputy Commander Ziegler." He felt a pang of disappointment; Kevin's rapid rise felt unfair.

Kevin, raising his cup, toasted them. "Thank you for your guidance and care. I wouldn't be here without you."

Galen's bitterness faded at Kevin's respect. He raised his cup. "Don't say that. Congratulations, my friend."

As they drank, Galen glanced at Barrett, a fellow deputy commander whom he secretly envied.