Isaac didn't bother to count the enemy's numbers. "How many of you are there?" he asked."It's just me and Iris. She's over there." Claire pointed across the road to a patch of dense trees where a figure was slowly making her way toward the convoy."We're dead meat," Isaac muttered, his face darkening. "You two and me—three against over a hundred, plus the suicide soldiers." He ran a hand through his hair, frustrated. How had everything gone so wrong so quickly after he descended the mountain?His handsome face furrowed in concentration as he quickly ran through possible plans in his mind. Okay, the chances of success were zero—but he couldn't just stand by and do nothing.Violet had already been dragged into the tent. She seemed drugged, her body limp, and the only sign of resistance she had left was the curse she muttered earlier. After that, she had gone completely silent.The men moved out of the tent, and Yuvan entered. Isaac felt his blood rush to his head.Earlier, h
How could Isaac dare leave his guild junior behind? Even while carrying Violet, he was still capable of fighting.As Isaac turned around, he saw Carissa's whip loop around Yuvan's neck, pulling him forward. She slapped him hard across the face, her strikes ringing out with fury.Good. Capturing the leader came first. If they had Yuvan, they could at least escape once they tied him up.Without hesitation, Isaac tightened his grip on Violet and ran. Her flushed face and the heat rising from her skin told him she had been drugged. He needed to find a way to insert silver needles to disperse the blood and break the toxin's grip.Carissa had captured Yuvan, but Claire and Iris had been taken by the guards as well. Their throats were pressed against the sharp edges of swords, the blades nearly cutting into their skin.Yuvan finally dropped his pretense and sneered. "If you have the courage, kill me. Go on, kill your uncle-in-law! Let's see how Rafael explains that to the world!"Cari
Wayne felt a headache coming on. His thoughts clouded with irritation at Yuvan's blind obsession.Wayne had thought this matter was nearly settled. He had expected a smooth departure from the capital, only to have Yuvan insist on a new arrangement. Yuvan even sent some of the suicide soldiers to carry out this task when they were supposed to remain in the city. What was more, Violet's involvement had completely shattered their plans.A flicker of anger crossed Wayne's gaze. If Carissa had been eliminated that night and buried quietly, no one would've known. As luck would have it, she had escaped and was now holding Yuvan hostage. This was not something easily dealt with.Fortunately, Wayne had already anticipated such a situation and had taken precautions in advance. He was prepared for what would come after the task was completed, and to smooth things over with the Spencer family.But now… No matter how this played out, it would cause a significant rift with the Spencers and m
At Carissa's words, both Wayne and Fiona's expressions shifted slightly, as if they hadn't expected her to deny that the woman was Violet.Carissa turned her gaze toward Fiona and changed the topic. "It seems your earlier comments were a bit odd, Lady Fiona. Why should I thank you? What relationship does that woman have with me?"Fiona's expression stiffened, and she faltered. "Well... then, Your Grace, you have even less reason to be holding His Highness hostage. We're all family, and making a scene like this doesn't do anyone any favors."Carissa smiled, but it was a cold one."Then, I apologize. It turns out this was a misunderstanding." She didn't release Yuvan, but kept her gaze fixed on Fiona. "However, why were these men in black staying near the western mountain pass? Are they from Prince Yuvan's household?""Yes, they escorted His Highness back to the capital. Edgeview Estate couldn't accommodate so many, so they were placed outside the city," Fiona replied.Wayne was ab
Wayne, seeing an opportunity, quickly spoke up, "Prince Yuvan is injured. If we don't stop the bleeding soon, he may be in grave danger. Lady Carissa, please release him so the physician can tend to the wound."His eyes were on Carissa, waiting for her to loosen her grip. The moment she did, he would signal the suicide soldiers to attack. He needed to act fast before reinforcements arrived. The plan was simple—kill them all and escape quickly.But Carissa still held Yuvan's throat, though she had loosened her grip just enough to allow him to breathe. "It's just a minor wound. As long as the dagger stays in place, it won't be fatal."Yuvan gasped for air, the pain in his abdomen sending tremors through his body. This woman had no hesitation or mercy—she was ruthless. He struggled to stay upright, his body swaying as if it would collapse at any moment.Carissa's voice was cold and steady as she said, "Your Highness, you might want to stay steady. With a slight movement, the dagger wi
Rafael, Kyle, and Travis led the soldiers from Hell Monarch Estate as they galloped down the main road, quickly reaching the small grove. Torches lit the area like it was broad daylight, casting flickering shadows across the trees. Even without wearing armor, Rafael sat tall on his massive steed. He commanded an air of authority, like a general ready to claim victory on the battlefield.His sharp gaze swept over the area, but before he could speak, he heard Violet charging toward them, her furious shouts cutting through the night air. "Beast! I'll kill you!"She was unarmed, but the fury in her eyes made her seem like a wild animal charging forward with all her strength. She slammed into Yuvan's chest with a force that sent him stumbling back. Carissa was quick to react. She moved aside but didn't intervene—letting Violet release her rage instead.Yuvan was sent flying several feet, hitting the ground hard. He coughed violently, blood spilling from his mouth. Violet pounced on
Fiona's hair was a tangled mess, her cheek swelling from the force of the slap. The blow sent her tumbling backward, and she crashed into Yuvan. He winced in pain, gasping for breath.Violet's fury was barely contained, and she didn't hesitate for a moment. She turned and marched toward Molly, her steps swift and determined."Violet, what do you think you're doing?" Molly shrieked in terror, stumbling back. "I'm your cousin! I would never harm you—ah!"Before Molly could protest further, Violet grabbed a fistful of her hair, lifting her off the ground and slamming her into a tree. Molly's entire body seemed to crack with the impact; she collapsed, gasping in pain as tears streamed down her face."The last thing you said to me was that the scent on your body was the poison you used against me," Violet hissed, her eyes flashing with murderous intent. "Molly Spencer, what do you gain by helping that vile man? Did you think you could keep the title of princess consort after this? You'r
In short, this situation could blow up, but it couldn't get too out of hand—at least they still needed to let Yuvan and his group return to Valken.Violet exhaled a long breath, but her anger was far from quenched. She would get her chance for payback—there would be another time.The Garrison Unit and the Capital Guard arrived first. Alistair had intended to lead the Royal Guard out of the city, but the soldiers couldn't leave without royal orders. He had snuck out in disguise instead.Though they didn't know all the details, they had an idea of what had happened, and they had never been so angry in their lives. Violet was their mentor, and to harm her was like harming their own parents.This was unforgivable!When Claire had quietly told them what had happened and what Rafael and Carissa's plans were, they held their tempers in check for the time being. However, they still ordered the Garrison Unit and the Capital Guard to surround Yuvan and his men.The focus was on the black-c
Lisandra continued, "The irony is, when I was a grand princess, I could call for women to join the ranks of government without hesitation. Now that I am the queen, I must move slowly, cautiously, balancing all the factions, weakening their hostility and wariness toward me. There are so many things to consider and so many forces at play. At times, I grow impatient, and I wish I could simply rid myself of those who oppose me."Carissa thought for a moment before replying, "In truth, whether one is a king or an official, man or woman, I believe their goal is the same, Your Majesty. It's to ensure the long-term stability of the kingdom and the peace and prosperity of the people. "When the nation prospers and war is no longer a threat, any reforms you wish to make will face less resistance. But for now, you must first secure your position, Your Majesty."Her meaning was subtle, but Lisandra understood clearly. The kingdom was still in turmoil, with various factions causing obstacles. Si
The royal palace of Orivenia stood resplendent and imposing, its golden architecture gleaming under the night sky, exuding an air of solemn grandeur.Upon passing through the first palace gate, the carriage rolled smoothly along the wide palace path, its spaciousness a stark contrast to the more cramped streets outside. However, what stood out the most was the abundance of lamps. It seemed as if oil was no object, for the palace grounds were lit up as though the night itself had been banished. As they got out of the carriage and walked along the winding corridor, the large trees ahead were hung with many lamps. Anyone trying to hide in the trees wouldn't stand a chance; they would be seen immediately.Liam led the way. As they approached a grand palace hall, two female attendants stepped forward. They exchanged a few words with Liam in the Westic before smiling and nodding to Carissa and Violet."Ladies, Her Majesty invites you to enter the palace," Liam said with a polite gesture
By the time they reached the capital of Orivenia, it was the 13th of August. A full month had passed since they left Starhaven.The afternoon sun shone brightly, and Kendrick lay back in the carriage as they entered the city.Since entering Orivenia's borders, they had endured seven assassination attempts. The last one had been particularly brutal, likely involving suicide soldiers. Many of the Mystic Army were injured, and even Violet had been grazed on the shoulder. Thankfully, it hadn't struck anything vital.Kendrick's fear was understandable. The attack had come when he was emerging from the washroom. The assassin's sword had pierced his chest, nearly plunging in completely. It was Carissa who noticed in time and swiftly turned, driving her spear into the assassin's chest before dragging him back with the hooked tip of her dagger, saving Kendrick's life.Though the injuries were minor, Kendrick reacted as if he had been mortally wounded. He howled in agony for half the night b
Kendrick had been shaken by the attack, and the royal physician had already been called to prepare a sedative to calm his nerves.When Carissa visited him, it was a pitiful sight. His face was as pale as paper, drained of all color. His lips trembled, and he shakily asked if the assassins were gone.She reassured him, saying they had gone, and only then did his trembling subside slightly.The people around him had already informed him that the assassins were driven off, but he hadn't believed them. He needed to hear it from Carissa to feel any sense of security.Carissa reminded him to rest and recuperate before she left.Meanwhile, Davis was busy comforting the others. As the Defense Minister, he had seen his fair share of chaos and remained calm. Also, he trusted Carissa and the Mystic Army. He didn't think there was much to fear—at worst, they had just risked losing a head.It was Meadow Ridge's members who gathered together, speculating that the black-clad figures they had en
At the break of dawn, the large procession set out for Orivenia.Carissa didn't feel much regret in leaving. After all, they would pass through Victory Pass on the way back, and she would have the chance to meet with her grandfather and his family again.Once they had left Victory Pass, the road grew rougher. Many sections were full of deep potholes or had been intentionally damaged, making it difficult for the carriages to move forward.However, Kendrick was determined not to ride a horse again. Even after days of rest, his legs were still sore from the relentless friction of the saddle. Walking was manageable, but sitting on horseback? That was pure agony.So, despite having earned his merit at Victory Pass for establishing an orphanage there, Kendrick insisted on traveling by carriage. When the wheels got stuck or the path became too treacherous, the Mystic Army soldiers dismounted and pushed the carriage forward, inching their way through the difficult terrain.Fortunately,
Wallace gave the order, and Barrett was tasked with the job of investigating. He led a group to search the area.Barrett was aware that Carissa had arrived at Victory Pass. He had been there to greet the group. However, he had stayed at a distance, watching from afar without approaching. From that distance, he hadn't been able to make out any faces, only a vague silhouette that seemed to resemble hers.He had thought his actions unnecessary. After all, what business did he have with her? The affairs of the capital were nothing for him to involve himself with.While the diplomatic envoy rested in Victory Pass, they spent their time discussing strategies and rehearsing their approach. Everyone understood that while this negotiation might seem easier compared to the last, it was by no means a simple task.Lisandra had long kept this matter at the forefront of her mind and would not easily yield to any compromises.The Sullivan family also feared that someone might infiltrate the envo
Spring Pavilion was full that day.The restaurant wasn't very big to begin with, and it usually had some customers. The black-clad men that lady brought had taken up all the remaining seats.Carissa, Violet, and Travis had to sit at a small table the owner had set up at the last minute, separate from the others.The man's voice, soft and apologetic, reached Carissa's ear. It was warm and pleasant. "These are my brothers-in-arms. We've been traveling since last night and haven't had a bite to eat. If it troubles you, I can have them wait outside and just pass them some bread each when we're done."Violet paused, surprised, but quickly shook her head. "No need for that. Please, let them stay. They can sit where they like and order what they wish."The man smiled kindly. "You are kind-hearted, miss. In that case, we'll order freely, and we'll take extra.""Alright… That's fine," Violet replied, casting a glance at the sea of black. The men were dressed in a way that suggested some
Carissa studied the man and woman carefully, feeling a sense of unease. She couldn't quite place their age. They looked to be in their thirties, yet there was an undeniable vitality about them, as if they were no older than twenty.Her gaze moved to their eyes, particularly the man's. His eyes were as deep and mysterious, yet they held the calculating sharpness of a seasoned old fox.Before Carissa could say anything, the man stepped forward and spoke. "This is where the orphanage is being built? Is the local government funding it?"Travis glanced at them, noting their perfectly spoken Starhaven dialect. They clearly weren't from Victory Pass, yet he saw no malice in their faces. He nodded. "Yes, it's a place to take in abandoned children," he replied. "It's being supported by the local government."The man nodded. "That's a good cause."Carissa stepped forward. "Are you from the capital?"The man regarded her but didn't answer her question. Instead, he asked, "Are you the He
Kendrick didn't wake until well into the afternoon the following day, his body heavy with exhaustion and hunger. When his eyes finally fluttered open, he felt as if his entire body had been shattered. Every muscle ached, and lifting even his arm seemed like a Herculean task.The weariness sank deep into his bones, and he had no energy to move. His attendant, a trusted servant by the name of Avery, stood at his bedside, awaiting his attention. He said quietly, "Your Highness, Lady Carissa has been waiting for you for half the day. She wishes to speak with you."Kendrick had initially planned to stay in bed, have all his meals brought to him, and then drift back to sleep. He was simply too tired to move. But when he heard that Carissa had waited so long, he immediately threw the covers off and commanded, "Prepare me, quickly."Over the course of the journey, Kendrick had come to understand just how formidable Carissa was. As a woman, she had never once complained about exhaustion