Barrett didn’t share Aurora’s optimism.
While he had initially been eager to go to the Southern Frontier, that was under the assumption there would be only Sandorian soldiers to face.
Now, with Westhaven’s three hundred thousand soldiers pouring into llyrian and Simonton, and with Sandoria possibly sending even more soldiers, the situation had changed drastically.
The enemy forces now numbered around five hundred thousand. Meanwhile, Barrett’s forces totaled less. than one hundred and twenty thousand soldiers. Combined with Rafael’s exhausted and under–resourced forces, they only had about three hundred thousand soldiers in total.
Rafael’s forces were now severely exhausted, with many wounded soldiers and a shortage of supplies. They were waiting for provisions on an empty stomach, so it was impossible to capture llyrian at the moment. They would have to wait in place for reinforcements to arrive.
Winter made the situation even worse. The Southern Frontier was harsh and cold, which was a severe disadvantage for Westhaven’s forces.
The people of Sandoria, however, were known for their resilience in such conditions and could endure the cold with ease.
Given the disparity in strength between the two countries, this battle would be very difficult, especially if Sandoria continued to send reinforcements to reclaim the lost territories and take full control of the Southern Frontier.
The chance of a complete defeat is almost certain if that happened.
Of course, winning would lead to great achievements In the same vein, losing could mean losing life on the battlefield.
one’s
Hector and his sons were among those who sacrificed their lives in the Southern Frontier. These factors showed how dangerous the Southern Frontier battlefield was.
In addition, Aurora promised to get reinforcements to the Southern Frontier before Westhaven’s forces arrived. It was basically an impossible task, but she had boasted so easily about it. Her overconfidence was likely due to her lack of experience in official matters.
If the battle ended in defeat, both Barrett and Aurora would likely face severe repercussions.
Though it was a golden opportunity, Barrett remained anxious and cautious, and wasn’t as optimistic as
Aurora.
Aurora suddenly asked, “By the way, do you know why His Majesty has stationed royal guards at the gate of Northwatch Estate to keep an eye on Carissa?”
Barrett shook his head, not wanting to get into another discussion about Carissa. It would only lead to more arguments.
Aurora adjusted her cloak, a sly smile curling her lips.
“It’s to keep her from causing trouble. I heard she went to the palace the day after our wedding, and was escorted back by royal guards. Since then, the guards have been stationed at Northwatch Estate. This clearly indicates she made some unreasonable demands when she visited the king. Maybe it’s related to
us. She can’t stand our happiness.”
Barrett had heard something along those lines but hadn’t looked into it further, not wanting to upset Aurora. He was surprised she had investigated it herself.
+15 BONUS
Aurora linked her arm with his, a triumphant glint flashing in her eyes. T’m curious to see if she’ll still maintain her noble, refined demeanor when we return victorious from the Southern Frontier, or if she’ll reveal the envy she hides.”
Barrett couldn’t help but say, The Sinclairs have countless military achievements. I doubt she’ll be jealous.”
Aurora snorted. “Her only connection to those achievements is enjoying the honor and luxury brought by her family’s success! Has she earned any of it herself?”
Barrett sighed. “Aurora, let’s not talk about her. It doesn’t matter how she fares–whether she’s wealthy or destitute–it doesn’t concern us.”
“Of course it doesn’t,” Aurora agreed, but then added with a touch of false sympathy, “Still, I don’t need to make things difficult for her. Women are pitiable to begin with.”
Barrett fell silent, contemplating her words. Previously, he would have admired and felt reassured by Aurora’s sentiments. After marrying her, he realized that her views on women were even more contemptuous than most men.
The night was like a giant beast, swallowing the world in darkness. Not a single ray of light could be seen, and even the stars were hidden behind thick clouds
