Glimmering Tower was one of the tallest buildings in the capital. From its highest point, visitors could gaze down at the southern river port and take in a breathtaking view of much of the city's beauty. The entire structure was imposing and magnificent, and it exuded a level of luxury that was truly extraordinary.However, getting a seat in the private room on the top floor of Glimmering Tower didn't come cheap. Just the coffee alone cost five silver coins, and ordering a meal could easily run into dozens of silver coins for something simple. For a nicer dish, the price could soar into the hundreds or even thousands of silver coins.As for who owned Glimmering Tower, not many could say. What everyone knew was that those who went to the tower were either rich or nobles, and the tower made a fortune every day. Those who knew the owner of Glimmering Tower kept it to themselves, as there aren't many left in the capital who have connections with that person in Meadow Ridge.Violet and O
The snacks at Glimmering Tower were numerous and exquisite, each more delicious than the last. Even a simple pound cake was sweet without being cloying, with a fragrant and chewy texture that melted in the mouth.Violet took a bite, and said with a smile, "This was my favorite treat when I was little. Our chef didn't make it, so my brother would sneak out to buy it for me. We loved hiding under the apple tree and eating pound cakes together."She gazed out the window as sunlight streamed in and illuminated her face, which was alight with smiles and memories. "It was often on bright autumn days like this one. But back then, in September, it didn't get as cool as it does in the capital. Sometimes, it was quite hot. The sunlight would filter through the tree branches and cast a warm glow on my brother's face."As Violet spoke, her hand brushed over the rabbit figurine beside her, and she sighed softly. "But it's been so long since I've seen him."Darin was momentarily stunned. The s
Darin had been abducted. But before that, she had parents and a brother. They had all doted on her. She had been mischievous, but her family had always indulged her. This rabbit figurine hadn't been made by Violet's brother. It had been made by Darin's own brother.Yet, so many things had slipped from her memory. She couldn't remember what her parents or brother looked like. Yes, she had grandparents too—both of whom loved her dearly. She could almost hear the gentle, loving voice from her memories."Oh, my little darling, when will you grow up? When will you learn to be more sensible?"Violet quietly stood beside her, gazing at the beautiful scenery of the southern river port, and remarked softly, "What a lovely river view."The mention of the river felt like lightning striking Darin's mind."River York! You spoil her so much that she thinks she can get away with anything. What will people say in the future?""River, come here quickly! Jaina has fallen and hurt her leg!"Dari
Even though hardly anyone came up here, the place was kept remarkably clean. There was even a swing set on the small platform, large enough for two or three people to sit on together.However, there were no guardrails, and the entire platform lacked any kind of barrier. If the swing swung out too far and the person on it couldn't hold on tight, they could easily fall off.Violet invited Jaina to sit on the swing and began to gently rock it back and forth, facing the river view.Jaina felt a flutter of fear in her heart. Her martial arts skills weren't very good, and her Lightfoot Skill was mediocre at best. She clutched the rope next to her in a death grip."When I met you at Grovehill Estate, you didn't know my identity. How could you be so sure afterward?" Jaina was puzzled. Everything felt too coincidental, as if it had been carefully orchestrated.Violet replied, "That day, you seemed somewhat familiar to me because of the mole on your lip. The Hell Monarch's princess consort'
But Jaina had spent her childhood navigating the world alongside Lucas, and she had learned that human nature was far more complex. She had no familial ties with Eleanor, yet the latter had saved her and was supposedly looking for a husband for her. It all felt improbable.Jaina had been in the capital for a while, and Eleanor never mentioned anything about a marriage proposal. Jaina was 25 years old now, and if Eleanor genuinely intended to arrange a match for her, Eleanor would have brought it up by now.In truth, Jaina wasn't entirely sure how old she was. Lucas had said she was around seven or eight when he rescued her, so by that estimation, she must be in her mid-twenties now. Furthermore, Eleanor held many banquets held at her palace. If she had any desire to present Jaina, she would have done so by now. Yet every time, Jaina found herself locked away in the courtyard. She couldn't even step outside her room. The old maid explained that she hadn't learned the proper etiq
When Jaina returned to Grovehill Estate, Gemma immediately approached her, eager to know what had transpired. Gemma was a respected lady of a marquis' family, and she would normally never treat a troupe performer with such kindness. She only did it because it was a favor to Eleanor.However, Jaina's eyes were red, which was clearly a sign of losing her composure. Gemma couldn't help but ask sharply, "Have you been crying? Did you do it in front of them?"Jaina pressed her hand to her chest, looking as though she was still shaken. "Madam Gemma, you don't understand. We went to Glimmering Tower, and we had a private room on the top floor. It was supposed to be the highest floor in the building, but Ms. Spencer wanted to test my courage. She said that since Thomas comes from a military background, I must be brave if I was to be his wife. She took my hand and flew to the very top! It was terrifying! I didn't cry in front of her, but the wind up there was so strong it made my eyes wat
Violet returned to the palace, and called Carissa and Jacob to the study. Rafael was still not back at the time. Jacob was anxious to hear the news, so he didn't want to wait for Rafael to return.Violet's first words brought tears to Jacob's eyes. "Jacob, I'm sure she's your sister."Since Violet had left, he had been restless. He hadn't been able to sleep the night before, and dark circles hung under his eyes. When Violet returned, he had just gathered himself to ask her about it when she spoke up first.He was momentarily stunned—then, tears streamed down his face.Carissa and Violet were still present, and he trembled as he made his way to the desk. He sat down, and rested his forehead against the surface for what felt like an eternity. Finally, he looked up with red-rimmed eyes and asked, "Are you sure, Ms. Spencer? You must take responsibility for your words.""I'm sure of it. She even mentioned some past events, and shared many memories she remembered. There were some det
Carissa interrupted, "You mentioned that the performance troupe was repeatedly disrupted a few years ago. How exactly were they disrupted? Did she say anything about it?""Yes, some scoundrels smashed up their equipment. They bought replacements several times, only to have them destroyed again. It made Lucas so furious, he was nearly foaming at his mouth.""When did this happen?" Carissa pressed."She said it was five years ago, and it went on for about six months.""I see. Make a note that Eleanor might have visited Stonebridge County five years ago, or she could have sent someone there," Carissa instructed Jacob.Jacob nodded. "Thank you for reminding me, Your Grace. I was so focused on Ms. Spencer's story that I completely forgot we still need to investigate Grand Princess Eleanor's so-called rescue."Jacob had never been so careless before. He realized he was too excited this time.Violet continued, "After the performance troupe disbanded, everyone scattered for a few months
The position Faelan took at the table represented Nerathia's stance in the negotiations.They were neutral!Carissa couldn't help but marvel once more at the power of a strong kingdom.The initial stages of the talks were tedious, with the same points being repeated over and over. The translators were busy, their voices echoing with historical debates. This was inevitable, as conceding too early would only lead to further compromises.As such, the first round of negotiations yielded no agreement. It was simply a test of boundaries.The second round began the following day. Again, they emphasized the same points.But after the second repetition, Faelan spoke up, saying, "There is no point in prolonging this. The dispute over the border has lasted for decades. It will not be resolved in a day. Let us set the border issue aside for now. What I wish to know is whether both sides are committed to establishing peace and mutual non-aggression between your kingdoms."The answer was unan
Carissa noticed that the nobles and officials of Orivenia seemed unaware of Nerathia's intention to intervene in the negotiations.Their faces betrayed confusion, but after a moment, they revealed expressions of joy and confidence. It seemed they also believed that Nerathia's involvement would provide Orivenia with solid backing.Seeing this, Carissa felt a slight sense of reassurance. If that were really the case, Lisandra would have informed them beforehand. Or at least, she would have let the negotiating officials know.But why hadn't she?It seemed there was only one explanation. Lisandra was also hoping for mutual concessions. Few at court supported her, so she had brought in Faelan from Nerathia—someone whom everyone would trust.This made sense of the conversation from the previous night, when Lisandra had invited Carissa and Violet to the palace. The remarks about unmet wishes were clear now. The example of the women taking part in the civil service examinations was just t
In banquets like these, no one truly ate with much enthusiasm. Most dishes were merely tasted before being set aside, barely touched before servants whisked them away.But the Nerathians were different. They treated every dish with genuine respect, cleaning their plates entirely, no matter what was served. Their wine glasses, once filled, were immediately emptied again. The palace servants attending to them must have been exhausted, constantly refilling their glasses and replacing empty plates.Violet recalled their meal at Spring Pavilion. Just like tonight, not a single scrap had been left behind. She wanted to say something to Carissa, but the only sound in the hall was the clinking of cutlery and the quiet shifting of plates. Speaking now would be too conspicuous.Still, one glance between them was enough.Violet's thought was clear—the Nerathians' presence at this banquet must be tied to the negotiations. Carissa agreed.However, their exact role remained uncertain. Were they
The banquet began in the late afternoon, with Liam personally escorting the Starhaven delegation to the palace again.As they had suspected, the coronation ceremony had already been held. This evening's gathering was mainly focused on the border negotiations. Upon entering, Carissa and Violet noticed that there were no other foreign emissaries present—only royals, nobles, and officials from various departments.While they showed no hostility toward the Starhaven delegation, they weren't particularly welcoming either. Since a translator was needed for communication, conversations remained minimal, limited to simple greetings.Just as they were settling in, Lisandra turned to the Starhaven delegation and remarked, "Today, we have guests from Nerathia joining us as well. They should be arriving shortly. I believe you will find that you have much in common."Davis' eyes brightened immediately. "Guests from Nerathia? Who might they be?"His excitement was understandable.The weapons t
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,