As Barrett stepped out of the estate, a sudden impulse surged within him—a strong desire to rush straight to Northwatch Estate.He wanted to ask Carissa in person if there was still any chance between them.Even though Aurora had said today that Carissa thought nothing of him, even though Carissa's attitude on the battlefield had been clear, even though he had been so resolute in divorcing her back then, he still couldn't believe that his former wife could have erased him from her heart so quickly.He thought she was merely angry at his ruthlessness, that she hated him for not keeping his promises. As long as she still felt anger and hate, it meant she still cared.But the biting cold wind brought Barrett back to reality—or perhaps he had been clear-headed all along and had just been momentarily overwhelmed by emotion.Things were already set in stone.There was no point in seeking out Carissa. Even if she still had some lingering feelings for her former husband, she was going to
The slap left Serena stunned and disoriented. She covered her face, staring blankly for a moment before finally bursting into tears."You hit me? You hit me for that shameless woman?! I'm telling Mom about this!"With that, she ran off, still covering her face.Barrett pounded his fist against the study door, his face a mask of anguish.Carissa was unchaste? Quite the opposite.She was pure, as he had never touched her.It was laughable that now, having realized his own feelings, Barrett found that he had never truly possessed Carissa. If he had consummated their marriage before going off to war, then when he married Aurora, Carissa would never have so easily asked for a divorce.After a while, Rebecca summoned her son.Before he could say a word, Rebecca spoke up, "I think it's good that Serena is so determined. I support her wholeheartedly. As long as Grand Princess Eleanor is willing to recommend her to Lady Helen, and she can marry into the Hell Monarch's household, it will
Carissa naturally had no desire to attend Helen's tea party. Relieved that Ryan was finally able to speak again, she now turned her attention to organizing the defensive strategy maps and tactical diagrams left by her father and brothers.Whether it was Victory Pass or the Southern Frontier, her family had guarded these strategic points. They were well-acquainted with the fortifications and had drawn numerous defensive strategy maps.Even during times of peace, they had sent scouts to explore the surrounding forts, meticulously marking every detail on their maps. However, some of the sketches were a bit haphazard and disorganized, so Carissa decided to create new, more refined versions.This was, of course, a time-consuming task. Looking at the stack of rough drafts, Carissa estimated that if she were to do it herself, it would take at least two or three months to complete.She sighed, thinking how much easier it would be if Kyle were around. His keen eye and sharp mind meant that
Brimming with excitement, Carissa eagerly linked her arm with Kyle's."Kyle, where did you come from? From Meadow Ridge? Did you come alone? What about our master? What about Winona?" she asked one question after another, rapid-fire.Kyle rapped her gently on the head, his eyes still filled with affection. "I didn't return to Meadow Ridge. I came from Victory Pass. As for Winona, she will arrive in a few days. She's been keeping an eye on the movements in Sandoria and has sent numerous reports through carrier pigeons.""Winona is coming too? That's wonderful!" Carissa's face lit up with joy, her smile as radiant as a blooming flower.Frederick had brought a cloak but then remembered that the main hall had a fire going, making the cloak unnecessary.Nevertheless, as he stood by the door, watching the legendary Kyle Spencer, he felt a surge of emotion that almost made him tear up. He desperately wanted to fetch some stationery and have Kyle write something for him, which he would tr
Carissa knew that Helen had not invited her to the tea party, but she was unclear about when exactly Helen planned to host it.She looked at Kyle. "When did you arrive in the capital? This can't be a coincidence, can it?"Kyle smiled. "I've been here for a few days, just strolling around the city to enjoy some peace and quiet. I didn't expect to hear your chatter so soon.""What? You arrived in the capital and didn't come to see me immediately? That's really too much!""Well, go ahead and cry about it," Kyle said, sitting down leisurely with his coffee. After sipping half a cup, he looked up and saw Carissa's eyes had reddened. He couldn't help but sigh. "You never tell us about your problems, so of course I had to come and check on you myself. I needed to see if you were doing well or not. Even if you don't need our help, at least I should be aware of the situation.""Kyle, I'm doing very well now." Carissa said as she sat beside him, still trying to act spoiled like she used
On the day of Helen's gathering, ladies from both inside and outside the capital, as well as the families of high-ranking officials, all arrived at Hell Monarch Estate.Despite the invitation being framed as a snowfall viewing event, it hadn't snowed that day. Furthermore, the garden's orchids had been transplanted to a secluded area. After the relocation, the blossoms hadn't bloomed at all this year. Even with Rafael's return and the meticulous care of a specialist, the garden had only a few blooming flowers.However, whether it was flowers or snow was secondary. Everyone understood well enough that Helen organized this tea party to show off.As expected, today she wore a deep red brocade gown embroidered with large lilies. A pristine white fox fur draped elegantly over her shoulders, and her hair, touched with a few strands of gray, was styled in an elaborate updo. It was adorned with a gold crown set with rubies, giving her an air of undeniable nobility.Eleanor had also dress
When the question was raised, everyone realized that Carissa was absent.It was indeed strange. Given that she was about to marry into the family, she should have been present at Helen's tea party today.In the midst of the confusion, Helen said coolly, "This tea party of mine isn’t an event that just anyone can attend."Her words made everyone understand the situation—Helen clearly did not favor her future daughter-in-law.That made sense.Though Carissa came from a distinguished family and had military achievements, she was a woman who had once divorced. Rafael was a prince, and he was far above her in status.Whispers and murmurs spread among the guests. Margaret felt uncomfortable, and disapproved of Helen's behavior. Even if Helen didn't like Carissa, the marriage had already been confirmed, and a certain level of decorum should be maintained.Margaret glanced at her daughter-in-law, Jessica, who was engaged in conversation with Serena. She shook her head.After all these
With a tearful expression, Serena bowed deeply to thank Helen. She then cast a desperate look towards Jessica.Jessica's face darkened. What was this foolish woman doing today? She had directly embarrassed her!The onlookers suppressed their laughter. Helen was easily flattered—a few compliments could make her open her heart. It was easy to please her or to deceive her out of money, but she took great pride in her son. Anyone who aimed for Rafael was crossing a line that could not be tolerated.Jessica was seething with anger, but had no choice but to maintain silence with a stiff expression.However, Eleanor simply smiled and took a slow sip of her tea. She said, "It was merely a jest. Why would anyone take it seriously? Rafael's princess consort hasn't even married into the family yet, so what talk of a second wife? Jessica, you were too kind-hearted. That girl from the Warren family shed a few tears and you pitied her, so you spoke up for her before Helen. And Helen, how c
Yuvan and Harvey were escorted out of the city gates, with Wayne personally seeing them off.Harvey had expected that once they handed over Yuvan, Wayne would order his release. But when the soldiers from the Capital Army moved forward to seize them, Wayne didn't utter a word.A wave of panic surged within Harvey. He struggled against his restraints and glanced at Wayne, his eyes screaming for an explanation.Wayne gave him a small, reassuring nod, signaling for him to stay calm. Yet, something felt wrong. After all, Wayne had promised that only Yuvan would be handed over. So, why was Harvey being turned over as well?Could it be... Could it be that they are going to abandon him?!A sense of dread tightened in Harvey's chest. "I'm innocent!" he pleaded desperately. "I captured Yuvan. Release me!"Thomas cast a cold, dismissive glance at him. "What a fool!""Wayne!" Harvey's heart plunged like it had fallen into an icy abyss. His expression shifted from anger to helplessness.
Yuvan was unaware that this so-called negotiation was merely a ruse. He was to be handed over and used as bait to lure Thomas' army into the city.Thomas agreed to the negotiations and went alone. Wayne also went alone, though he had his men trailing him from a distance of about 30 feet.Wayne began his plea, explaining that most of Valken's officials, himself included, had no idea Yuvan was planning rebellion. Some were aware, but out of fear of Yuvan's power, they dared not speak out.Thomas expressed his distrust. He insisted they had been plotting for a long time.Thomas' stance was firm, which led Wayne to realize that Thomas had no knowledge that Nicholas was involved in this matter. He also couldn't possibly know about the reinforcement that was on the way. In addition to confirming this fact through Thomas' attitude, Wayne also placed a lot of trust in Clifford. This trust and respect came from Clifford's ability to convince the Spencer family. Wayne and Yuvan had been tr
Thomas had already received word from his scouts. Several mysterious groups had gathered outside Nerovia and were now heading toward Valken.Long before this, he had received a report from Jacob. Jacob had warned him that Yuvan might feign surrender to lure them into the city for a trap, and then spring an ambush from within. Thomas knew well that Yuvan was nothing more than a pawn in Nicholas' game.With years of experience in intelligence and espionage, Thomas could piece together the situation with just a few key bits of information and devise a strategy accordingly.Homer and Felix had initially remained in the capital, but yesterday they had suddenly moved to join him outside Valken. Thomas had been surprised at first—after all, the capital should have been the most dangerous place. Why would the two of them be sent here?Felix explained that Carissa's mentor, Adrian, the leader of the Pathfinders Guild, had come to the capital, bringing with him many martial artists to aid
That evening, Samson returned with a scout and hastily reported, "Your Highness, Mr. Harper has successfully rallied our scattered troops and secured 500 warhorses from the Spencer family. He is making his way back now. If the pace holds, he will arrive in three days."Yuvan sprang to his feet, his heart pounding with excitement. "Is that true?""Absolutely, Your Highness. The scout is waiting outside. You may call him in to confirm.""Bring him in!" Yuvan sat back down, his pulse racing. At last, he had gathered all the forces—but the news of the Spencer family providing 500 warhorses caught him off guard. Since the fallout over Violet's incident, he had severed ties with the Spencer family. The scout entered, kneeling before Yuvan. "Your Highness, Mr. Harper sends word that the private army has assembled. Also, Mr. Murphy, one of Prince Nicholas' advisors, is leading 5,000 men and 500 warhorses in support. Prince Nicholas has one request—he wants the rescue of Prince Hayden."
Hayden clenched his fists, his anger and helplessness tightening his chest as he followed behind.The physician worked quickly, examining Sonny's injuries. Both of his legs were broken, three of his teeth were knocked out, and his face was riddled with fractures. Despite the pain that twisted his expression, he still grinned at Hayden, forcing a smile through gritted teeth.He tried to assure Hayden with a look that said he would be fine.Hayden turned away, his heart aching. The man who had stood by his side for so many years now lay in such a state. Fury surged within him, but there was nothing he could do.Back in Nerovia, he had ordered an extra emblem to be made, just in case the day ever came when Nicholas stole the original to mobilize Hayden's forces. If Hayden noticed in time, someone could use the duplicate emblem to stop Nicholas.Hayden hadn't expected it to serve its purpose this way, though.The chaos of the riverworks project was swiftly quelled. Cameron was arrest
As dawn broke, Adrian led them to the Glimmering Tower. It was then that Carissa realized they weren't the only ones who had arrived—many guild leaders and elders were present as well. Even Violet and Bun's mentor had come.When Violet spotted her mentor Conrad, she gasped in surprise and rushed toward him. "Sage Conrad, what brings you here? You didn't even send word beforehand!"Conrad smiled warmly as he looked at his beloved apprentice, indulgence in his voice. "I heard you were guarding the capital. Naturally, I had to come and lend you a hand.""Sage Conrad, you're too kind. I'll get another villa for you once we're done here," Violet said, linking her arm with his, grinning widely.Conrad scowled lightly, feigning annoyance. "Why would I need more villas from you? No more, I tell you. However, I did hear about a hot spring at Solitude Peak. I thought of buying it, so your fellow apprentices can soak and strengthen their bodies."Violet nodded enthusiastically. "I'll buy i
The black-clad assailants' Lightfoot Skills were extraordinary, and they scattered in all directions. Adrian could have pursued one of them, but catching all of them was impossible.However, he chose not to pursue anyone at all. Emerging from the shadows, his hand darted out and grabbed Carissa by the ear, twisting it until she yelped in pain. "So bold of you, wasn't it? To engage without proper defenses? Do you think you're invincible? Haven't you heard the saying that there's always someone stronger out there?"Carissa shrieked and flailed in protest as the lamps were lit by Jacob, illuminating the courtyard and revealing the bloodstains on everyone's bodies.Only then did Adrian notice the wounds on Carissa. Yet instead of softening, his grip on her ear tightened, and he hissed, "You couldn't guess what Nicholas was planning? And you didn't think to write for reinforcements from Meadow Ridge? Are you so arrogant now that you've forgotten basic caution? Just wait until your mart
Hayden gestured for her to lower the sword. "Not tonight. Neither side is ready."Chaya frowned, confused. "Why? Didn't you say Mr. Russell was formidable? If he's taking action, surely he can capture Prince Nicholas?""He won't capture him," Hayden replied, rubbing his temples. "General Farrell has Valken surrounded, but he hasn't launched an attack because he knows Mr. Murphy has already undermined Prince Yuvan's authority. "A portion of Valken's population has joined the so-called rebel forces. If the capital falls now, the officials in Valken and Nerovia will find an excuse, under the court's banner, to slaughter the townsfolk. That would spark even larger uprisings. That's why Lady Carissa can't act prematurely."Chaya hastily tossed the sword aside. "And why isn't it the right time for Prince Nicholas, then?""It's simple," Hayden said. "He needs Mr. Murphy to first defeat General Farrell in a decisive victory. Once General Farrell is dealt with, he'll move on to General Mu
By the early hours of the morning, the rain had lessened to a gentle drizzle, leaving the air cooler and the night more serene. The quiet respite lulled many into a deeper, more peaceful sleep.Seven or eight shadowy figures darted through the curfewed city, their movements light and swift. They barely left a trace as they touched down on rooftops, their steps silent.They arrived at the Capital Guard headquarters. The outer guards had already retreated for the night, leaving only Carissa and her companions waiting in the main hall, tense and alert.With a quick exchange of glances, the group gripped their weapons. The assassins had arrived!The dim light of the hall flickered, and as the black-clad figures descended, a gust of wind extinguished the lamps. Darkness enveloped the room, plunging it into an impenetrable black where even an outstretched hand became invisible.Amid the darkness, the faint sound of breathing and the subtle rhythm of movements became the only clues to