In Ilyrian, Westhaven’s marshal, Liam Simmons, stood on the city walls, watching the Starhaven soldiers. in the distance. Hatred and anger burned in his eyes.
“They won’t be able to defend the Southern Frontier,” he said coldly, his gaze almost fiery enough to incinerate the distant Starhaven troops.
“Your soldiers are injured and exhausted. Take a few days to rest before attacking again,” suggested Sandoria’s marshal, Victor.
Liam shook his head. His white hair was covered by a thick hat, and he exhaled clouds of white breath. Gripping the wall’s stone bricks, he said, “No! We can’t let them enjoy their victory for too long. We will resume the attack the day after tomorrow. Within three days, we must capture Tower City.”
Victor was indifferent. Most of the soldiers on the front lines were from Westhaven, and they had brought their own soldiers and supplies.
“We’ve investigated the matter you asked about. The general Aurora Yates is indeed among the Starhaven reinforcements, and is currently heading to the Southern Frontier battlefield.”
Liam’s fists clenched tightly, veins bulging on his forehead. “We must capture that woman alive at all costs!”
Victor was puzzled.
Aurora was just one woman. Why did Liam harbor such deep enmity toward her?
“What grudge do you have against her? And don’t you have spies in Starhaven? Why rely on us to get Information?” Victor asked.
“Our spies…” Liam said slowly, releasing his grip and letting out a heavy sigh, the white mist swirling around his weary face, “have already completed their mission.”
Victor didn’t understand why Westhaven was helping Sandoria so unconditionally. He knew the alliance. between Sandoria’s and Westhaven’s kings aimed to strengthen trade and open sea routes after capturing the Southern Frontier. It was beneficial for both nations, and not considered a condition from
Westhaven.
is might
Victor speculated be related to Westhaven’s defeat at Victory Pass, where they had also
surrendered.
He despised those who surrendered, but obviously knew how to keep his disdain to himself.
Meanwhile, Carissa left the command tent and slowly made her way back to the barracks, her eyes filled with overwhelming hatred.
The confidential letter from Rafael revealed that one of the prisoners Aurora had captured was Westhaven’s prince.
The prince, who had gone to the battlefield for training, was captured by Aurora at Fawnrun City. Despite being in captivity, he refused to reveal his identity. His stubbornness led to him being humiliated and tortured by Aurora’s men, who eventually castrated him.
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The prince’s capture was a key reason behind Westhaven’s surrender–they hoped to trade him back from Aurora. Unfortunately, the prince was too weak to handle the humiliation and committed suicide after being released.
Westhaven was keen to keep the news of their prince’s disgraceful treatment and castration secret. They also wanted to hide that he had committed suicide due to the unbearable humiliation. Instead of confronting Starhaven head–on, Westhaven chose to ally with Sandoria to take revenge on the Southern Frontier battlefield.
The peace treaty was hastily signed in Fawnrun City, which was why Victory Pass’s victory was attributed solely to Aurora.
Aurora wasn’t even aware that the soldier she had tortured was Westhaven’s prince.
It made sense why Westhaven was so determined to eradicate Carissa’s entire household.
Aurora Yates!
Carissa fought to suppress her overwhelming hatred. Rafael emphasized that the bigger picture was crucial, and for now, they would focus on the Southern Frontier battle rather than the battle at Victory
Pass.
Carissa understood Rafael’s point, so she had to endure the seething rage in her heart. Even though ber throat tasted bitter and her mouth was filled with the metallic taste of blood, she had to hold it in.
Moreover, this situation might implicate her grandfather. She had no choice but to endure, even if she couldn’t.
The people of Westhaven sought revenge but chose to indirectly address it on the Southern Frontier battlefield rather than confronting the truth head–on.
Aurora had caused immense suffering on the Southern Frontier battlefield.
Otherwise, with the might of the Hell Monarch’s army, they could have reclaimed Ilyrian and Simonton in a matter of days.
Now that Westhaven was involved, how many soldiers would need to be sacrificed for ultimate victory?
