Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)

Since Barrett had just taken office, he needed to work longer hours. He often personally inspected various parts of the palace, except for the inner court.

When he wasn’t on patrol, he could be found waiting by the door of the royal study or back at the Central Command Office, ready to submit his logs when the shifts changed,

The guards on duty were required to record their findings after each patrol. They needed to note down if they found any irregularities. If everything was normal, they also still had to document that. Barrett was free to leave the palace at five in the evening, but he often didn’t depart until nearly seven.

As he was leaving, he unexpectedly ran into Yuvan. Barrett knew the prince typically entered the palace early in the morning and left before closing time, so it struck him as odd that Yuvan was leaving so early today.

“Your Highness,” Barrett greeted, bowing slightly.

Yuvan smiled back at him. “I haven’t had a chance to congratulate you on your promotion, General Warren. I’ve always believed you were capable. Previously, your talents were simply overlooked, I wish you continued success in the future.”

Barrett felt a bit overwhelmed by the praise. “Thank you, Your Highness.”

With his hands clasped behind his back, Yuvan continued, “When you have some free time, come to Edgeview Estate with your wife for a visit. My wife isn’t familiar with the capital, and if your wife has time to show her around, I know she would appreciate it.”

“I’m grateful for your kindness, but my wife is currently pregnant, so it may not be convenient for her to travel,” Barrett replied.

“Of course. Then, why not come by the estate for a chat? We could catch up,” Yuvan suggested with a cheerful smile. “What a joyful time for you! A promotion and a soon–to–be dad! I’d like to congratulate you once again.”

Barrett found Yuvan to be quite amiable, but he wondered if the prince’s friendliness was a bit excessive. Not daring to say anything about it, Barrett simply thanked him and shifted the topic. “Why are you leaving the palace so early today, Your Highness?”

Yuvan stretched a bit and casually replied, “My mom has taken her medicine and is resting, so I thought I’d leave early. I’m feeling a bit tired today. Otherwise, I would’ve invited you to the estate for a drink. I know you’ve made significant contributions at Victory Pass and the Southern Frontier.”

The mention of Victory Pass sent a shiver down Barrett’s spine. “I will surely visit the next time I get the chance.”

Yuvan smiled but didn’t say anything further.

Once they exited the palace, the two men rode the same path for a while before parting ways. Not far behind them, Carissa trailed, catching snippets of their conversation, mostly centered around Yuvan praising Barrett.

Barrett’s expression was a mix of surprise and caution. While he wasn’t foolish, the approval from

someone in a high position flattered him.

Upon returning home, Carissa shared the news with Rafael.

Afterward, she quickly clarified, “Just to be clear, I’m only concerned because he’s my subordinate and now serves as the Crown Guard’s commander by His Majesty’s side. That’s why I’m nervous… Wait, I’m not nervous. I mean, that’s why I paid attention to these things.”

Rafael chuckled and pinched her cheek lightly. “No need to explain. Do you think I’m that petty? You should be cautious about anyone who gets too close to Yuvan now. You’re doing the right thing.”

Carissa linked her arm with his. “I was just worried you might misunderstand. I know you’re not petty at all.

Rafael removed his outer cloak and handed it to Sydney before pulling Carissa down to sit beside him. “I hear you’re planning to assess the Royal Guard. Are you thinking of getting involved personally?”

“Word travels fast. Did Michael tell you?”

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

Carissa laughed lightly. “Not entirely. Since taking office, I’ve been busy with the treason case and haven’t had a chance to conduct any assessments. The Civil Department evaluation is coming up at the end of the year, and as their superior, I have to write their performance reviews. This assessment won’t just be for the Royal Guard. The Garrison Unit, the Capital Guard, and the Crown Guard will be included as well.” “Surely the assessment won’t be limited to just martial skills?” Rafael asked.

Carissa knocked her fists together, a rare, playful sparkle in her eyes.

“Not strictly, but martial skills will definitely be the priority. Alistair shouldn’t be too much of a problem; he used to manage the entire Royal Guard himself. But now, there’s a new commander over him, so he’s bound to feel some resentment. I need him to adjust to having a superior. If he’s not on board, the Royal Guard won’t be either. If there’s a real emergency and I can’t mobilize them, it could lead to disaster.”

Rafael chuckled. “Oh, sounds like someone’s about to get a beating.”