When the news reached Valken, chaos erupted at Horizon Estate.Yuvan was beside himself with fury, and he hurled a glass cup across the room. "Useless fools! 5,000 private soldiers—how could they be wiped out without a word of warning? What is Tiberius even doing? So many men went to Lunvale, and he had no precautions in place! Not even a messenger to report this!"His face was contorted in a fury so terrifying that even Harvey, standing quietly nearby, dared not speak.This was a blow they had not seen coming.Yuvan's group had been solely focused on the private army in Stonebridge County. None of them ever imagined that problems would arise in Lunvale.Stone Village had been concealed so carefully. How could it have been discovered?Lunvale should never have drawn any attention in the first place!Its terrain was perfect—hidden tunnels and a stronghold backed by mountains on three sides. Yuvan had always thought that should their plans fail, they could retreat there and rema
In the study of Horizon Estate, the lamp had burned through the night.Yuvan had called together all his strategists, hoping to find someone who would agree with him.He truly believed now was not the right time—it would only lead to their deaths.If Tiberius were killed, there would be no hard evidence to accuse him of treason.Yet, all the strategists, as well as the officials from Valken who worked alongside him, were united in their opposition to killing Tiberius.The force that wiped out 5,000 private soldiers with ease was now escorting Tiberius back to the capital. With an escort like that, how could they possibly succeed in killing him?Rather than expend all their energy on that, it would be wiser to simply rise.Saul Harper, Valken's governor, said, "Your Highness, since we've missed the best opportunity, we should not delay any longer. The cost of maintaining the army is high, and with no financial aid from the capital, we cannot sustain this much longer. If we wait,
The following day, Horizon Estate grew even more crowded, with several noble families from Ebonflow arriving.These noble families, by all rights, should have been the most opposed to upheaval, for only in times of peace and prosperity could they enjoy their wealth and titles.However, after decades of existence, their titles had dwindled from dukes to marquises. Some even faced the looming possibility of having their titles stripped away. Naturally, anxiety began to creep in. After all, they had once been at the height of their power.Of course, not every noble family aligned with Yuvan's cause. Some sought only to live quiet lives in their own corner of the world, and while they were keenly aware of Yuvan's machinations, they preferred not to involve themselves. For them, the key was never to offend anyone—so they chose to turn a blind eye.Since not everyone had arrived yet, Yuvan decided to delay matters further, claiming he would make his decision only once everyone had gather
Rafael had intended to mention the person behind Yuvan's actions, but upon reflection, he chose to hold back. He didn't want to plant wild suspicions in Chester's mind. Instead, he said, "At the time, there was no concrete evidence. If Prince Yuvan had been killed without cause, the king would have earned the reputation of mercilessly slaying his own kin. "That would have only fueled the rebellion further. After all, rebellion is never the work of one man. With the reach Prince Yuvan's power has gained, someone would inevitably step forward to carry his banner. As for allowing him to return to Valken, it was to prevent him from reconnecting with those who had ties to Eleanor."Chester hadn't thought too deeply before Rafael's explanation. "I see.""If my suspicions are correct, they're planning to rise. They'll find some excuse to incite an uprising in various places. Once chaos erupts in Starhaven, they'll rally their forces under the pretext of quelling the unrest. That's why y
Cece Spencer, of course, was none other than Celeste Kingsley.After the birth of their son, she had blossomed anew. Her figure was as slender and graceful as ever, untouched by the weight of motherhood. Despite the harsh winds and biting cold of last year's winter in the Southern Frontier, she had flourished. Her complexion was as smooth as silk, and she radiated a delicate allure that made it impossible to look away.In the estate, everything of value seemed to be reserved for her. Each day, she indulged in camel's milk stews and royal jelly soup, soaking in sheep's milk baths—luxuries she had no qualms about enjoying even after the flow of money from the capital had dried up. To Oliver, she seemed almost impossibly delicate. Holding her soft, fragile hand stirred something deep in his chest. He knew it was unusual—after all, he had spent his life surrounded by women of all kinds, from those of exceptional beauty to those of quiet sweetness. Yet it was this woman, with her natu
Upon hearing his promise, Celeste's tears finally ceased. Yet, her fingers still clutched tightly at his garments, her body pressed against his chest. Though her face was streaked with tears, her eyes had hardened into cold disdain, a far cry from the fragile, sorrowful image she had projected earlier.She loathed this old man. She also despised every person who had used her beauty and her body for their ends. She didn't want to be a pawn in anyone's game, and she was weary of the role. She had never received a shred of genuine affection.Yet, there was no other path for her. If she had to marry a lowly merchant or commoner, she wouldn't be able to endure that hardship. Though she had been used in the past, she had lived well enough. After leaving the capital and wandering for a few days, she realized she could never escape the life of wealth and luxury.When that man came to her, she agreed without hesitation. At that time, it had seemed like her only escape.Her background mean
When Barrett arrived at Victory Pass, he made his way to the marshal's residence, Stormwatch Keep.He had braced himself for a harsh reception—to his surprise, the Sullivan family merely sent someone to collect the gift and ushered them to their quarters. No one came out to berate him or discipline him. He stood in stunned silence for a long moment before dragging his weary feet back outside."The marshal's residence here is nothing like ours at the Southern Frontier," remarked Glen, one of the soldiers accompanying him. "It's grand enough, but it's so bare and simple—there's not a single fine thing here.""Don't compare General Sullivan to Marshal Prince," Barrett said.Inwardly, he thought that Oliver wasn't worthy of being compared.Thinking Barrett was cautioning him against criticizing Oliver, Glen quickly fell silent.For the moment, they had been settled in the large camp, sleeping in the communal barracks. Of course, if they wanted to return to the Southern Frontier soone
Salvador knew Rafael had endured a long journey, but he still kept him in the palace and summoned the Defense Minister, his deputy minister, and Thomas to discuss matters.It was essential to consider all possible scenarios, make multiple predictions based on the current situation, and then organize their forces accordingly. Above all else, Salvador's greatest fear remained the Southern Frontier, but when Rafael mentioned Leroy from Westhaven, Salvador's expression faltered."It's impossible for someone to have the capability to collude with both Sandoria and Westhaven," he said, his unease evident.Starhaven's relationship with Westhaven had always been delicate, and their negotiations hadn't fully concluded. There was still a debt to settle with Westhaven that loomed over them. But that wasn't the greatest concern.The real issue was that if the true mastermind behind the rebellion truly had the skill to forge such alliances, then how long had they been biding their time? How
Once back at the palace, Salvador was unable to rise from his bed. Sebastian spoke briefly with him, hinting that he didn't have much time left. If there was anyone he wished to see, it should be done as soon as possible.The first person Salvador wanted to see was, of course, Victoria."That child… When he saw me, he couldn't stop asking about you. You didn't love him in vain, Mom," Salvador murmured, his voice weak.Victoria sighed deeply. "How cruel... his life must be lived hidden away in the mountains, never able to leave. Is there truly no hope for his legs?""I believe there is no hope," Salvador replied softly, his lips pale and drained of color. "But as I was leaving, he said, 'Dad, once I've learned enough medicine, I'll cure you. I'll make you better.'"Victoria's heart ached. "What a good child."Salvador's gaze drifted to the ceiling, his voice barely a whisper as he repeated, "Yes, he is a good child."After speaking with Victoria, Salvador asked Rafael to bring in
Salvador had temporarily settled at Eldermere Keep. The place was filled with every kind of medicine, yet his illness had reached a point where no remedy could ease his suffering.Still, staying there brought him peace. It was as if he had finally set down a heavy burden and could now live as an ordinary father. He spent each day with his son, sharing simple moments together.Carissa was allowed to visit and spend some time with Connor. He asked her about Ryan, specifically inquiring whether he had made any new friends."Ryan has no other friends but you. He always thinks about you," she reassured with a smile, thinking the eldest prince might be jealous.Connor was quiet for a long while, his expression tinged with guilt. Finally, with a deep sadness in his eyes, he softly said, "I have friends now, like Otto. Ryan should have his own friends too. I always think about him, but... I don't think I'll ever see him again."Carissa gently patted his head and smiled. "The future is lon
After the sun set behind the mountains, the temperature began to drop. Salvador had been carried up the mountain, but now, he was carrying Connor on his back as they made their way back into the estate.Connor had his arms tightly wrapped around Salvador's thin shoulders, and he couldn't stop the tears from falling. This was a scene he had never even dared to dream of. Not only had he never imagined being carried by his father, but even something as simple as having his father gently pat his head had always seemed like an impossible wish.But his father was so thin; there was no flesh on his back at all. How had he become so frail?Carissa and the others waited outside the gates. Not even Galen had been allowed in. Only Salvador's most loyal attendants, those who had carried the litter, were permitted to enter. The others, of course, were kept away from Connor. They all believed that Salvador had come to Eldermere Keep solely to recover from his illness.The estate itself was full
Salvador didn't fare well along the long and tiring journey, his condition worsening with each passing day. Sebastian did what he could—applying needle treatment and using medicine—but all he could offer was temporary relief. As they pressed on, the king's condition only seemed to deteriorate further.Fortunately, Salvador was a man of remarkable willpower. Despite his suffering, he gritted his teeth and carried on, unwilling to give in. He could not afford to back down—not now.Eldermere Keep lay in the southern province of Mendoria, where the climate was mild and temperate, perfect for someone needing rest and recovery. Even though it was now winter, the air was neither cold nor biting, more akin to the gentler days of autumn.The locals knew little of Eldermere Keep, though they often spoke of a physician's office that was the largest in Mendoria, as big as the one in the capital, also called Arcane Sanctum. There were other keeps, but this one was renowned for its abundance of r
Before Salvador left the capital, Rafael had already become regent and taken on the required duties. With his great military achievements, he had earned respect from both civil and military officials. At first, no one questioned his authority, and many even held him in high regard.However, with Salvador now ill and traveling incognito, rumors began to spread within the palace, warning people to be wary of the regent. The fear was that, as Cecil was still so young, Rafael might take advantage of the situation and eventually replace him.As often the case, such suspicion and rumors spread like wildfire, fueled by the mouths of many. Consequently, a number of officials lost their previous respect for Rafael. They even began to disregard his orders, paying them little heed and carrying out his commands half-heartedly.Noticing this troubling shift, Davis felt a sense of urgency. He decided to speak with Patrick, the Minister of Justice, who was also Cecil's grandfather and the father o
On the day of the first snowfall, a sudden idea struck Salvador. He hadn't attended court in some time, and now, seated on the throne, he declared his plans for a private journey to admire Starhaven's beautiful landscapes. As for the kingdom affairs, they had already been entrusted to Rafael, and that arrangement would remain unchanged.As Salvador appeared very thin and weary, many court officials tried to advise against the trip. But once he had made up his mind, there was no swaying him. He insisted that Carissa and Galen accompany him, along with Sebastian and Dorian.The very next day, they set off.It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision—Salvador had already discussed the matter with Rafael and Carissa beforehand. Sebastian had advised against it, but the king's mind was made up, so the renowned physician had no choice but to accompany him.While Salvador certainly wanted to see more of the kingdom, his true destination was Eldermere Keep, as he longed to see his son one last
Eustace waited patiently for Violet to finish her greetings before he could finally choke back his emotions."Rise, you little imp," he said softly, his voice thick with feeling.Violet slowly stood, her eyes brimming with tears. She tilted her head back, fighting to hold them in.At that moment, she regretted her decision. Why had she been so stubborn? Why had she insisted on getting married in the capital when none of her relatives were here?"Dad, once the wedding is over today, may we return with you? We can hold a celebration at home. Afterward, we can go to the guild and host another, if that's all right," Violet suggested.Eustace was pleased by the thought, but didn't want his daughter to wear herself out with so much traveling."Didn't you say you don't have many friends in Ebonflow? That's why you didn't want a grand wedding there," he reminded her."I don't, but you do, Dad, and so does our family. I can't be so selfish. I don't want you to be embarrassed because of m
Carissa had intended to spend more time talking with Violet today, but she had forgotten how many little tasks came with weddings. The hired bride attendants arrived to do Violet's hair and makeup, and before long, an hour had passed.Violet was already stunningly beautiful, but under the skilled hands of the bride attendants, she looked even more radiant—lovelier than the flowers themselves.Lunchtime came and went with only a light meal, and soon, the guests began arriving to see Violet off.As the groom's elder sister-in-law, Zoey wasn't supposed to be present but had insisted on coming. She said that since she was family to the groom, and as good as family to the bride, there was no problem. After all, it was a good day, and as long as everyone was happy, what did it matter?As Violet put on her wedding gown, a sudden wave of nervousness washed over her.Was she really getting married?Marriage meant taking on responsibilities—managing a household and having children. It woul
Isaac and Violet were finally set to marry in the golden month of October.In truth, Violet had accepted Isaac's proposal the year before, during the Starlight Harvest Festival. From that moment, she knew he was the one she wanted to give her heart to. When she agreed to marry him, she did so with all sincerity, trusting her feelings in that moment.It had taken a full year to arrange the wedding, but it wasn't because of the wedding gifts or dowry.Violet's dowry had been prepared by the Spencer family since her birth, gradually adding to it year after year. Now, they had even bought a house and a large estate in the capital. As for the wedding gifts, the Pathfinders Guild had long since prepared them on Isaac's behalf.Instead, the delay was due to differing opinions among the Spencer family, the Inferno Guild, the Pathfinders Guild, and Violet herself.Violet wanted to get married at Hell Monarch Estate, then have Isaac escort her to her estate in the capital. It seemed easier