Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1304

When Connor was sent to Derek, Kylie smiled and said, "It's too early today. Prince Connor hasn't fully woken up yet. Please keep an eye on him on the way and remind him not to get confused or behave improperly in front of His Majesty."

After speaking, Lydia stepped forward and discreetly handed over a banknote.

However, Derek didn't take it. Bowing slightly, he replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, there's no need to worry. There's no question of improper behavior. His Majesty simply wanted to see his son and sent me to fetch him."

Derek was well-versed in reading people's intentions, and it was clear Kylie was fishing for hints about what Salvador might ask Connor. She hoped Derek could coach the boy during the journey on how to respond properly.

In the past, Derek might have quietly accepted such a gesture. Yet, today was different.

Kylie's smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered and responded, "Then I'll leave it in your hands, Mr. Walker. Thank you for your trouble."

Derek bowed again. He then took Connor's hand and departed.

-

In the corridor outside Goldleaf Palace, Salvador paced back and forth, his expression stormy. He had spent the entire night awake, unable to rest as the words lead the army in person wrapped around his mind like a thorny vine, relentless and suffocating.

There were too many things to consider if he were to lead the army himself.

If he were to lead the army, it would necessitate naming an heir. Unfortunately, Connor, his eldest and rightful heir by birth, was young, ill-suited for leadership, and plagued with a temperament that could only be described as spoiled and lazy. In every aspect, the boy lacked the qualities of a future king.

And yet, Connor was his firstborn and legitimate son.

"How long has Derek been gone?" Salvador asked abruptly, his tone sharp with impatience as he turned to the chamberlain Giovanni, who stood nearby.

"Your Majesty," Giovanni answered respectfully, "it has been an hour."

In truth, it had been longer, but Giovanni dared not say so. Salvador's expression was already dark and foreboding.

"An hour is far too long!" Salvador snapped. "Everspring Palace isn't far from here. Why hasn't he arrived yet?"

Giovanni immediately replied, "I will go and check on them at once, Your Majesty."

Before Giovanni could leave the Golden Harmony Hall, Derek appeared, panting heavily. Connor was slumped over his back, fast asleep.

Salvador's gaze turned thunderous at the sight. His voice boomed with fury. "Put him down!"

"Your Majesty, please calm your anger!" Derek called out as he gently lowered Connor to the ground.

The boy, deeply nestled in sleep, was startled awake as his feet hit the floor. Disoriented, he lashed out instinctively, his small fists aiming punches at Derek.

"You insolent servant!" he snapped.

Derek caught Connor's fist with ease and bent down to whisper urgently, "Your Highness, quickly greet His Majesty."