King Iramo and his Queen, Verlina, were in the midst of their morning repast when a valet interrupted them with news that Commander Harris requested an audience. The both were just about to conclude their breakfast.
Verlina, with a hint of curiosity lacing her voice, questioned, "What could possibly prompt the Military Commander to seek an audience with His Majesty at this early hour?" As she spoke, she delicately dabbed at her lips with a napkin, maintaining the grace and poise befitting a queen.
"Your Majesty, forgive me, but I have no idea," the valet humbly responded.
King Iramo put the napkin on the table and stood up. "Tell Harris to wait for me in the private room," instructed the King and told Verlina he would see her later.
The valet was quick to comply with the order left.
As the King arrived at the private room, Harris curtsied him, his right hand rested on the left chest and he bowed. "Greetings to Your Majesty." He then straightened up and met the King's gaze, who had by then settled into his seat.
King Iramo wasted no time and asked, "How was Sullivan's performance? Was it a waste of your time?"
Commander Harris, knitting his brows together, shook his head in denial. "Your Majesty, Prince Sullivan surpassed all expectations in the three tasks. His skill left me astounded. I never anticipated such prowess from Prince Sullivan," he confessed truthfully to the King.
King Iramo's left eyebrow arched in surprise, the unexpected praise for Sullivan leaving him in deep thought. Where could he have acquired such skills, the King wondered?
"Have Sullivan and General Maddox brought to me," King Iramo commanded his valet.
Once the valet had departed, Harris continued, "Your Majesty, it appears Prince Sullivan has been concealing his true abilities. His marksmanship is unparalleled, and his equestrian skills are beyond my capacity to describe. It seems we all underestimated the prince due to his past. He must have been training in secret to attain such mastery."
King Iramo merely hummed in response. So, the courtesan's son was not as ineffectual as he had believed. He realized he could not renege on his words now, though he had a desire to prevent Sullivan from joining the military.
Sullivan arrived first while General Maddox was a bit late.
Prince Sullivan bowed to his father before straightening up.
King Iramo addressed Sullivan, "I've been informed of your exceptional performance in all three tasks. As promised, you will be granted a military rank."
Sullivan responded with a respectful nod, "I am grateful, Your Majesty."
General Maddox, who had already learned about Sullivan's surprising success from the valet, was taken aback. He had initially believed that Sullivan would fail.
King Iramo then turned to General Maddox and announced, "Currently, we have four military commanders. I have decided to add another to our ranks. Prince Sullivan will be appointed as the fifth military commander, overseeing the Central Province, including the Capital."
"Your Majesty, I beg to differ, but entrusting the military administration of the capital to the prince may not be the most prudent decision," General Maddox voiced his opposition to the appointment.
Prince Sullivan, however, was quick to defend his capabilities. "Your Majesty, I assure you of my competence in managing the capital. My frequent travels have given me a keen understanding of the law and order situation in various areas. I've observed that prosperity isn't solely due to the affluent, but also the growth of the less privileged. A kingdom thrives when all its citizens prosper, and it is this inclusivity that garners respect for a King," he articulated.
King Iramo found himself intrigued by Sullivan's perspective. His other three sons had proven their worth, but Sullivan's true potential remained unexplored. The King felt it was time to see what his illegitimate son could bring to the table. He was eager to witness Sullivan's skills and abilities in action.
"Prince Sullivan will administer the capital under his military rank. That's my decision," King Iramo stated, leaving no room for argument.
Sullivan thanked the King to bestow him such a rank and assured him he would prove his worth.
"Your military uniform will reach you in the evening along with the badge and token of your authority," King Iramo affirmed before dismissing the three of them.
Outside the King's grand manor, Dahlia stood with bated breath, her eyes scanning the surroundings for Sullivan. The moment he came into view, she darted towards him, her heart pounding with anticipation. "What was the King's decree?" she inquired.
Sullivan's countenance was a mask, revealing nothing, yet Dahlia could sense a shift in his demeanor. A sinking feeling washed over her as she wondered if the King had reneged on his promise.
With a heavy sigh, she cast her gaze downward, her mind racing with thoughts of the uncertain future.
Breaking the silence, Sullivan spoke, "I have been bestowed with the rank of the 5th Commander. My jurisdiction now extends to the Central Province, encompassing the Capital itself," he declared.
"What???" Dahlia's eyes widened and the smile on her lips grew. She hugged Sullivan while patting his back with pride. "I knew it. You have the exceptional skills. I'm so happy for you," she exclaimed, her laughter ringing in the air.
Sullivan was taken aback by the sudden embrace, but he couldn't deny the warmth that spread through him. It was comforting to know that someone was genuinely pleased for his success.
As Dahlia pulled back, her gaze met his, her eyes shining with excitement. "From now on, no one will dare to slander you. You have the power to reprimand them for their disrespect. Will you also be dealing with lawbreakers? That would be quite the spectacle, Sullivan. And if you ever need assistance, remember, I'm always here to lend a hand," Dahlia offered with her radiant smile.
'You came useful to me, Dahlia. I still wonder what you exactly want from me. Are you really this woman or the woman I have known for years?' he thought.