Chapter 61
After enlisting, Carissa and her friends were immediately thrown into training
The five of them and a group of new recruits were sent to the training grounds. Basic drills like sword practice and wood cutting were incredibly easy for them.
In no time, they completed ten training exercises, leaving the new recruits in awe. However, when it came to learning battlefield strategies, they settled down and listened attentively
Aside from Carissa, who was familiar with warfare, the other four had no prior experience with battles.
Since Carissa had a tent, albeit a small one, they all squeezed in together comfortably. That evening, they asked Carissa eagerly about her marriage.
Carissa hugged her knees, and said with a smile, “Yes, I got married, then divorced, I’m single now
“That’s great!” Cynthia clapped her hands excitedly. “Jasper was so upset when he heard you got married. Now that you’re divorced, you can marry him.”
Carissa tapped her forehead with a finger. “I don’t want to. Jasper’s too fierce.”
“Fierce? Is he fiercer than your master? When your master gets angry, even the leaders of neighboring guilds are scared,” Cynthia said, leaning closer. “But, what’s it like to be married? I heard you have to sleep together. Did you sleep with him?”
Carissa replied, “No, nothing like that happened. We didn’t touch a single hair on each other. He left for battle the day we married, and we divorced shortly after he returned. He’s married someone else now.”
Carissa spoke about her marriage in a very straightforward manner.
“So fast?!” Violet spat in disdain. “Men are really no good! In the future, if I get married, it’ll be to a pig or a dog, but never to a man.”
“Hey, that’s not fair. If you’re talking about a bad man, that’s one thing, but you shouldn’t generalize. Both Bun and I are good men,” Travis said. He turned to look at Bun. “Don’t you agree?”
Bun was rummaging through the tent. As he searched, he sniffed and said, “I smell meat. Are you hiding some food?”
“You only think about eating, you glutton,” Travis said, giving Bun a light kick.
Bun was unfazed. “If we don’t eat enough, how can we have the strength to fight? Carissa, do you have any food hidden away?”
“There’s no food,” Carissa said. “The conditions at the front lines are tough. I haven’t had a decent meal
in days.
Carissa rubbed her belly. On the night she arrived, she had eaten two sticks of dried meat and a flatbread. After that, she had been eating nothing but dry biscuits, Now, there was barely any left.
The number of soldiers had increased, but the supply of food was clearly running low
Bun’s face fell. “Are we going to starve? How can the court let the soldiers go hungry?”
Carissa was sitting on the dirty bedding, and clasped her hands together. “They’re definitely working on gathering more supplies. Don’t worry, we’ll get enough to eat.”
She still smiled, but her friends exchanged glances, sensing a trace of sadness in her eyes that never seen before.
hey had
In the capital, reports from the Southern Frontier arrived swiftly
Salvador’s face turned pale when he saw the news. He called an emergency meeting with the Minister of Defense and the capital’s military commanders, including Barrett and Aurora
The Defense Minister, Davis Lloyd, broke into a cold sweat after seeing the report. “Westhaven has allied with Sandoria to invade the Southern Frontier? But how is that possible? Westhaven just signed a non- aggression peace treaty with us!”
The Deputy Defense Minister, Troy Hudson, was equally alarmed.
“How can we withstand a combined force of three hundred thousand Westhaven troops and two hundred thousand Sandoria soldiers?
“The Hell Monarch has already recovered twenty–three cities. He still has llyrian and Simonton remaining He’s suffered heavy losses. We’re down to maybe just over a hundred thousand soldiers, and our food supplies are running out. The Southern Frontier is vast, and there’s no way to stockpile enough supplies after taking twenty–three cities!”
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The second deputy defense minister, Ethan Smith, said. “Your Majesty, sending reinforcements now may be too late. Our spies didn’t pick up on this, which means all our spies in Sandoria and Westhaven must have been killed.”
Salvador remembered that ten days ago, Carissa had come to the palace with a forged letter, claiming it was information from Kyle. At that time, he thought she was simply bitter about Barrett and Aurora’s marriage. In turn, he reprimanded her and put her under house arrest
He didn’t realize she was speaking the truth.
Had he believed her ten days ago, they could have sent reinforcements immediately and started gathering supplies. With his brother’s command capabilities, they might have stood a chance against the Westhaven Sandoria alliance.
Meanwhile, Aurora and Barrett exchanged glances. Their long–awaited opportunity had finally arrived!
They had used their achievement at Victory Pass to request a marriage edict. If they could achieve great success on the Southern Frontier battlefield, they would become highly sought–after military leaders.
No one would dare mock them then!
Barrett still remembered the humiliation of his wedding. Despite being intimate with Aurora over the past few days, he was still seething inside.
In addition, his mother Rebecca had fallen ill upon learning about his pre–marital relations with Aurora. He had personally sought out Sebastian, but never even got to see the man. Aurora also tried to get help, but Sebastian refused to open his door, which infuriated her.
In the end, his sister–in–law Amelia spent two days kneeling in front of the physician’s office and finally managed to buy five Snowdrop Pills. They were incredibly expensive–originally thirty silver coins each- but Amelia had to pay one hundred silver coins even after spending two days kneeling.
Even selling Valor Estate wouldn’t cover the cost of the medicine for long. Barrett and Aurora were left facing ridicule, while Amelia earned praise for her devotion.
Barrett and Aurora’s heroic achievements were forgotten, overshadowed by the disaster of their wedding. They desperately needed battlefield success to restore their honor.
Both of them quickly knelt on the ground.
“Your Majesty, the situation is urgent. Please send additional troops. I’m willing to lead the reinforcements to the Southern Frontier and aim to reach the battlefield before the Westhaven forces arrive,” Aurora said.
Barrett was caught off guard. He wanted to stop Aurora, but didn’t make it in time.
The king immediately asked, “Can you really reach the Southern Frontier before the Westhaven forces
arrive?”
Aurora replied firmly, “I will do my utmost.”
“Very well,” Salvador said, “General Warren will be the commander, and General Yates will be the deputy commander. You are to immediately mobilize one hundred thousand soldiers from the Capital Army and march through the nights without delay”
Aurora was startled to hear it.
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“Your Majesty, even two hundred thousand soldiers might not be enough. The current force at the Southern Frontier is fewer than two hundred thousand, while Westhaven and Sandoria combined have at least five hundred thousand soldiers.
I
“Moreover, Sandoria possesses sacred firearms, I propose sending ten thousand soldiers from the Sacred Fire Regiment and thirty thousand from the Mystic Army to accompany the Capital Army soldiers under General Warren’s command.”
Davis quickly objected to this. “Your Majesty! The Mystic Army is your personal guard, and shouldn’t be easily removed from the capital.”
Salvador pondered for a moment, then said, “Send ten thousand soldiers from the Sacred Fire Regiment with General Warren. Allocate fifteen thousand Mystic Army troops to join the soldiers from the Capital Army. Once reinforcements arrive at the Southern Frontier, they will be placed under the command of the Hell Monarch.”
Aurora said, “Your Majesty! Since the Capital Army does not follow the Hell Monarch, I believe it would be better for me to lead them along with General Warren.
“Nonsense!” Davis barked. “One battlefield can’t have two commanders! Besides, the Capital Army soldiers were all trained by the Duke of Northwatch, and the Hell Monarch was also under his command. How could they not follow the Hell Monarch? If they refuse orders, what use are they as soldiers?” The prime minister, Jeremiah Murray, had arrived late. After understanding the situation, he also agreed that immediate action was necessary and that the Hell Monarch should command the reinforcements. Though Jeremiah was over seventy years old, he hadn’t retired. It proved that he still played a crucial role in maintaining stability in the court.
Therefore, Salvador trusted his judgment.
“It’s decided. Return to your residence and make your preparations. Once that’s done, General Warren and General Yates will join the ministers in arranging for the mobilization of the troops. You will hand over the medal of command to the Hell Monarch once you reach the Southern Frontier,” Salvador commanded.
“Understood, Your Majesty!” Barrett and Aurora replied
Salvador looked at Aurora. “You said you could reach the Southern Frontier before the Westhaven forces. I hope you won’t disappoint me. If you succeed, you will be greatly rewarded.”
Aurora looked up, her eyes filled with determination. “I will give my all, Your Majesty!”
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After Barrett and Aurora took their leave, Salvador and Jeremiah discussed selecting an inspector general and arranging for food supplies to be sent to the Southern Frontier.
The outcome of the battle was crucial. Having already captured twenty–three cities, Salvador was unwilling to fail at this critical moment.
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After leaving the palace, Barrett frowned and asked Aurora, “How can you guarantee that we’ll reach the battlefield before the Westhaven forces? They’ve already been on the move for over ten days, and we haven’t even left the capital yet! Even if we travel day and night, we won’t catch up with them.”
Aurora was determined, and replied, “Nothing’s impossible if we give it our all. We’ll make it!”
Barrett was frustrated. “Easy for you to say! When we led the Capital Army to Victory Pass, it took us two full months to get there. Now, we only have twenty days to reach the Southern Frontier. How will we manage?
Impatient, Aurora snapped, “Instead of complaining, you should focus on preparing and gathering the troops. We need to leave immediately.”
She then added coldly, “I know you’re unhappy with me lately, and your mother isn’t fond of me either. But I intend to show everyone that Carissa’s antics amount to nothing. The only way to elevate the Warrens status is through real battlefield achievements, not empty gestures.” 1
At the mention of Carissa, Barrett frowned. “Why bring her up now?”
Aurora snapped, “Are you so sensitive that I can’t even mention her? What’s your connection to her? Are you still hung up on her even after the divorce? I see through her–she’s trying to gain sympathy by playing the victim, which is why you went to Northwatch Estate to see her!”
Barrett’s eyes flashed with irritation. “I’ve already told you, I went to Northwatch Estate to ask her to get Sebastian’s help! Aside from the Snowdrop Pills, my mother’s illness needs proper diagnosis and treatment. And even when I got to the estate, I couldn’t see her.”
Aurora’s tone was icy. “Isn’t that just another one of her ploys? She’s deliberately avoiding you while using her so–called devotion as an excuse. Who knows what schemes you two are hatching?”
Barrett looked at Aurora’s icy face, feeling increasingly frustrated. He didn’t want to continue arguing
about Carissa.
“We’re about to head into battle. Can we not waste time arguing about someone who’s already out of our
lives?” he snapped.
Aurora also knew that recent messy affairs had strained their marriage. With the imminent battlefield ahead, they couldn’t afford to lose the understanding between them.
“You’re the one who told me not to mention her! You protect her so much–who knows if you have feelings for her?” she snarled.
“You’re the only one who holds my heart,” Barrett said gently, holding her hand. His gaze, however, was directed toward the darkening sky.
Aurora sighed. “Men always want more, I know. But I show you that marrying me is a blessing for you
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and your family. Carissa might have been dutiful and helpful when it came to your mother, but Amelia can do the same. I’m here to help restore the Warrens to its former glory, and revive the prestige of your great- grandfather and grandfather.”
That was Barrett’s greatest wish in life.
He nodded slightly, but was still puzzled. “It’s strange. Why would Westhaven and Sandoria join forces to attack us at the Southern Frontier? We forced them to surrender and sign a treaty at Victory Pass with promises not to invade the borders.”
“The treaty was about not crossing the Victory Pass borders. By aiding Sandoria, Westhaven is attacking the Southern Frontier, which we haven’t fully recovered yet. Ilyrian and Simonton are still under Sandoria’s control. So technically, they’re not breaking the treaty by going there,” Aurora explained.
“That makes sense, but it’s odd,” Barrett said. “Sandoria and Westhaven never had much military interaction before. Now, Sandoria is allowing three hundred thousand Westhaven soldiers into their territory. Aren’t they worried about Westhaven’s intentions?”
Though Barrett didn’t have extensive battlefield experience, the sudden alliance between the two kingdoms struck him as unusual.
Aurora shrugged. “Who cares? This is a golden opportunity for us! I’m more concerned about them not coming.”
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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.
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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
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The news that Barrett and Aurora were heading to the Southern Frontier stirred both excitement and concern in Rebecca. She knew that going to battle meant both fortune and peril–victory would bring great achievements, while defeat could cost their lives
After reflecting on it, Rebecca trusted her son and Aurora. After all, Aurora had played a crucial role in the Victory Pass battle. She was capable.
As generals, they would only need to command the tropps–the soldiers would do the actual fighting. With this thought, Rebecca’s joy overshadowed her worry. She made preparations for their departure.
A few days after Barrett and Aurora left the capital with their troops, the Starhaven sples stationed in Sandoria finally returned with reports.
The confidential messages matched exactly with the news from Rafael at the Southern Frontier and the information Carissa had provided over half a month ago.
The young and handsome king angrily tore up the reports. Over half a month had been lost! If he had heeded Carissa’s warnings earlier, dispatched reinforcements, and arranged supplies, Starhaven’s chances of success would have been much higher.
Although Aurora claimed she could arrive before the Westhaven forces reached the Southern Frontier, Salvador knew that was impossible given the distance and marching speed. After all, he had once been on the battlefield himself.
He couldn’t help but feel deep frustration.
“How could I have thought that Carissa was simply consumed by personal grudges and petty revenge against Barrett? She clearly brought urgent military intelligence, but I didn’t believe her!”
Derek carefully refilled Salvador’s tea, and said softly, “It’s also because Lady Sinclair forged a letter from Kyle that led you to doubt her, Your Majesty.”
Salvador shook his head.
“Without the forgery of Kyle’s letter, I wouldn’t have trusted her unsubstantiated claims even more. After all, Starhaven and Westhaven had just signed a non–aggression peace treaty. Since Aurora was the one who secured that agreement, I thought Carissa’s intention was to undermine Aurora’s achievements.”
He smiled bitterly.
“I underestimated her and used a petty mindset to judge someone as noble as her. She’s the Duke of Northwatch’s daughter, and she grew up training in the Pathfinders Guild. How could she be the kind not to easily let things go?”
Derek suddenly recalled something. “Your Majesty, when I went to Valor Estate to deliver your edict, I saw General Barrett and Lady Sinclair sparring. Lady Sinclair’s skills were indeed impressive, General Barrett couldn’t hold up for more than a few moves against her. Of course, I don’t know much about martial arts, so it’s possible General Barrett was holding back.”
Salvador had seen Barrett’s skills himself. Although Barrett wasn’t the best, he was still among the top among the young generals.
“Barrett must have let her win. Derek, go to Northwatch Estate and bring Lady Sinclair to the palace. With
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the Westhaven forces being so unpredictable, I suspect there might be issues with the Victory Pass battle that I’m unaware of.”
Derek went to Northwatch Estate personally. After removing the guards, he informed the servants that the king had summoned Carissa to the palace.
As the king had summoned Carissa, the servants at the estate could no longer keep her absence a secret. So, they had no choice but to tell the truth and kneel in apology.
When Derek returned to the palace and reported what had happened, Salvador was shocked.
“Are you telling me that even when I had the royal guards watch her, she still managed to sneak out that night? She went to the Southern Frontier to deliver the message?”
Derek knelt.
“Please calm down, Your Majesty. According to the estate’s steward, she had to go herself because the Situation was urgent. She had no other connections in the capital she could rely on except for you.
“According to one of the senior maids, Lady Sinclair traveled alone on horse and was expected to reach the Southern Frontier in about five days. She must have reported to the Hell Monarch. After he confirmed the situation, he sent the urgent report back to the capital requesting reinforcements.”
After Derek finished speaking, he glanced at the king in secret before adding, “The steward also said that Lady Sinclair mentioned she would come back to personally apologize to Your Majesty when she returns
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“How is she at fault? She went to the Southern Frontier with important news. If only I had trusted her, we could have been better prepared and not caught off guard. Even a day or an hour can make a difference in warfare. She did her duty. It’s my fault for not believing her,” Salvador sald.
He leaned slightly to the side.
“I had the royal guards watch her, and she still managed to slip away in the middle of the night? It seems her Lightfoot Skills are quite impressive.”
Derek smiled. “Your Majesty, she trained for seven to eight years at the Pathfinders Guild, the leading martial arts school in Starhaven. I heard she was one of their most talented apprentices.”
“Really?” Salvador was surprised. He only knew of Pathfinders Guild through Kyle, and hadn’t realized. Carissa was so capable. “I find it odd that Madam Sinclair would choose Barrett as her son–in–law. With the Sinclairs‘ standing, she could have picked any prominent family. Why choose the declining Warren family?”.
Derek hesitated before replying softly, I’ve heard that there were many suitors, but only Barrett swore to Lady Sinclair that he would never take a concubine.”
Salvador was momentarily stunned; then, his expression darkened with displeasure. “How ironic. He promised not to take a concubine, but right after achieving some merit, he immediately requested a marriage edict and made me an accomplice in his scheme. Madam Sinclair must have misjudged him.”
Derek sighed. “Indeed. Madam Sinclair’s misjudgment wasn’t limited to Barrett alone.”
Salvador looked at him. “What else is there?”
Derek continued, “Lady Leona got married recently. Lady Sinclair sent gifts to help with her wedding preparations, but the gifts didn’t even make it past the gates. They were all returned. The princess’s household refused them, saying that gifts from a divorced woman were unlucky.”
Salvador was stunned. “How could such a thing happen? Lady Heather and Madam Sinclair were sisters! Leona and Carissa have been close since they were young. As cousins, what’s the harm in accepting gifts? This divorce was my decision. Did Lady Heather feel that my edict brings misfortune?”
“Divorced women are often looked down upon. Now that the Duke of Northwatch’s family has only Lady Sinclair left and with no chance for a comeback, she’s left out in the cold. Even her close relatives have
distanced themselves.” Derek explained.
Salvador thought about the friendship between his mother and Melanie, and frowned deeply.
“This matter must not reach the empress dowager. She is very fond of Carissa, and would have adopted her as a goddaughter if she could. If she learns that Carissa has been treated with such disdain after the divorce, it would surely cause her to fall ill again.”
Derek replied, “Yes, Your Majesty. I will be careful.”
Salvador’s anger grew as he realized Carissa’s suffering stemmed from his decision to allow the marriage -between Barrett and Aurora.
“Send word to Hartstone Estate. Prince Harvey and his wife are to reflect on their actions for a month. Inform them that they will not be allowed to come to the palace for New Year’s Eve,” he ordered.
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Derek’s eyes flickered with understanding. “I hear and obey, Your Majesty.”
As Derek left the palace, he looked up at the gray sky, feeling a heavy weight on his chest. He remembered a similar gray and cold day, when the then–crown prince’s meals had been poisoned.
Having failed in his duties, Derek was punished by the late king with fifty lashes, and was on the brink of
death.
Melanie had learned of the incident from the empress dowager, and she brought Sebastian to treat him. This move saved his life. If Melanie hadn’t taken action, he would have perished in that harsh winter.
Now, with Melanie’s daughter being treated with such disrespect, how could he stand by and do nothing? Thus, despite his usual silence, he took the step to file a complaint to the king.
Since Harvey was merely a prince with no official duties and stayed in the capital to serve the empress
dowager,
Salvador would not see Derek’s complaints as interference in state matters.
Derek summoned two of the court attendants, and went to the Hartstone Estate to deliver the edict. Harvey and Heather exchanged puzzled looks, unable to understand why they were being punished. Salvador had disregarded that Harvey was his uncle, and ordered them to reflect on their actions for a month. Salvador had even barred them from accompanying the empress dowager for New Year’s Eve.
After receiving the edict, Harvey pulled Derek aside and asked quietly, “Mr. Walker, please tell me. What exactly have my wife and I have done to incur such displeasure from His Majesty?”
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Ignorance was the most frightening thing.
Derek shook his head. “I don’t know anything. I’m just following orders.”
His simple statement refrained Harvey from asking further questions. The king’s will was akin to divine authority–punishment was also a form of reward.
After Derek left, the couple looked at each other in confusion. They served the empress dowager, and the king even graciously allowed her to stay with them at Hartstone Estate. They were generally on good terms, so why were they being punished without explanation?
They hadn’t done anything wrong, or dared to do anything wrong.
It was truly strange!
In the depths of winter, heavy snow had blocked the path of Barrett’s troops. Although they had rushed out of the capital, the snow had fallen continuously for two days, covering everything with a thick layer. The severe cold wasn’t the only issue; progress had been severely delayed due to the heavy snowfall Each step was difficult, making it hard to pull one’s foot out of the snow.
The Southern Frontier had experienced some snow, but fortunately, it wasn’t much. The new recruits, numbering thirty thousand, had almost completed their training. Weapons and armor were being hastily prepared in Tower City, and they hoped reinforcement would reach the front lines before Westhaven’s forces arrived.
Rafael had come to find Carissa, strictly ordering her to return to the capital. However, Carissa claimed she had already enlisted, and that returning to the capital would make her a deserter.
The Duke of Northwatch’s family had no deserters.
Rafael had no way to deal with her, and instructed them to look out for each other. Once the fighting started, their skills might not be fully effective, as battles in such conditions often turned chaotic with friend and foe entangled together.
When Rafael visited Carissa, it terrified Cynthia. She thought the commanding officer looked like a savage.
“Is it just him? I think most of these soldiers look like savages,” Violet commented lightly.
Indeed, these soldiers had spent three years on the battlefield at the Southern Frontier. The original commander was Carissa’s father, and now, it was Rafael.
“It’s alright. Savages are tough fighters,” Bun said.
The war began on the twenty–third day of the twelfth lunar month, the eve of the New Year.
llyrian’s gates swung wide open as countless Sandorian soldiers poured out. Some of them were from Westhaven, others from Sandoria. They all wore the same armor, making it impossible to distinguish
between them.
For the first time on the battlefield, the five of them were somewhat at a loss. War was nothing like
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martial arts tournaments. Close combat was brutal, with no fancy moves–everyone just swung blades to kill.
Rafael and his army couldn’t retreat, as falling back meant returning to Tower City. Tower City had already been reclaimed, and retreating there would make it vulnerable to attack. The fight had to be waged in the open fields.
Carissa quickly found her rhythm. Her blood seemed to have awakened, and she charged straight into the enemy ranks. With her Rose Spear darting with deadly precision, she pierced through enemies‘ throats, almost always with a single fatal strike.
She had considered capturing the leader first, but her extensive reading of military texts had taught her that a general in golden armor on a fine steed might not always be the real leader. It could be a decoy.
Her first battle was a brutal one. She fought from dawn till dusk until she was utterly exhausted. She felt she had used up every ounce of her strength, but the enemy seemed endless.
Her body was covered in blood–the enemy’s blood. She had been slashed once on the shoulder, but her wooden armor had absorbed some of the impact, leaving only a surface wound.
The Sandorian forces retreated into llyrian as night fell, and the gates were shut.
The first battle was a victory for Starhaven,
Carissa and her companions lay on the ground, too exhausted to move. They were all covered in blood. If not for their breathing, they might have been mistaken for corpses.
Timothy and his men began to clear the battlefield. Starhaven had lost three thousand and two hundred soldiers, with the number of wounded still to be counted.
Sandoria’s casualties were around six thousand soldiers, with three hundred captured. However, the six- thousand figure was a conservative estimate, as Sandoria had taken some of their dead with them during the retreat.
Violet lay on the blood–soaked ground. She struggled to catch her breath as she asked, “Carissa, how many did you
you kill?”
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“I lost count after thirty,” Carissa said, raising her arm. The Rose Spear felt incredibly heavy.
War was truly exhausting.
“I counted–I killed fifty!” Bun tried to jump up with a fancy flip, but ended up face–planting to the ground instead.
Because there were too many people on the battlefield, Bun’s sword had been knocked away. He ended
up using his fiste feet to fight before finally retrieving his weapon after the enemy forces had
retreated.
“I killed sixty–three,” Violet reported.
Rafael’s deputy, Dylan, approached them, covered in blood and grime.
Carissa sat up first, then used the Rose Spear to help herself stand. “Deputy Ziegler!”
“Carissa!” Dylan’s eyes sparkled with surprise and excitement. “Do you know how many enemies you’ve killed?”
“No, I lost count,” Carissa replied.
Dylan clapped his hands in delight.
“The marshal personally counted the enemies you killed. You used your spear to pierce their throats–just counting those, there were over three hundred! That doesn’t even include those you didn’t stab in the throat. You’re amazing! Is this really your first battle? All the generals say you’re just like your father, General Sinclair!”
“Did I really kill that many? I didn’t keep track, but I’m so exhausted,” Carissa said, struggling to stay on her feet. She was unsure if it was cold or fatigue making her legs tremble.
Carissa seemed about to sit down again, so Dylan urged, “Come quickly! The marshal wants to see you!”
Bun sprang up energetically. “The marshal wants to see us? We should go then.”
Earlier, they’d been told that killing thirty enemies would earn them a promotion. Bun had definitely killed fifty, and Carissa had done exceptionally well, proving herself as the best fighter among them.
They helped each other into the command tent, only to find several generals already seated inside, including Timothy.
Bun stopped in his tracks, realizing there was no room left. The sudden halt caused everyone behind him to stumble and fall. There was now a chaotic heap of live valiant youths on the ground, eliciting laughter from everyone.
Violet, annoyed by the spectacle, kicked Bun sharply.
Rafael also laughed. His gaze fell on Carissa, and his eyes were particularly bright. “Carissa, you were outstanding!”
Carissa was too exhausted to be modest, so she simply smiled wearily.
“Carissa, you have General Sinclair’s spirit!” Timothy said happily.
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He was also thrilled, and clapped Carissa’s shoulder with such force that she nearly fell to her knees. She steadied herself, determined not to embarrass her father.
“Carissa, hear my decree!” Rafael rose and walked up to Carissa, his imposing figure almost overshadowing her.
His gravelly voice carried a weight of authority.
our command,
“I hereby appoint you as a regiment commander! You’ll have a thousand soldiers under your
and
you have full control over them. As for the others, they are appointed battalion commanders with a hundred troops assigned to them, and they’ll all be under your command.”
The newcomers were unfamiliar with military ranks, so they began counting. A battalion commander commanded one hundred soldiers, while a regiment commander commanded one thousand soldiers.
With that logic, it was clear that Carissa had just been promoted to a very high rank and was now their superior.
However, it didn’t change anything. After all, Carissa had already been their boss back in Meadow Ridge.
Carissa’s eyes widened in astonishment. Had she really been promoted so quickly, and to such a high position at that?
Rafael was clearly pleased. After praising Carissa in front of the other generals, he dismissed them, wanting to speak with her alone.
In the command tent, only Rafael and Carissa remained.
Despite her exhaustion, Carissa had been newly promoted to regiment commander. As such, she tried to maintain her composure and stood straight to face Rafael. “Marshal, do you have any orders?”
“Have a seat, and let’s talk.”
Rafael took a seat first. His face was still smeared with blood, and his beard was clotted. His appearance was a mess, though his eyes remained sharp and bright
Carissa carefully lowered herself into a seat.
Rafael pulled out a confidential letter from his desk, and handed it to her. “This is the reason Westhaven has allied with Sandoria.”
Carissa’s eyes widened. She knew it–the alliance between Westhaven and Sandoria was likely connected to the destruction of her entire family!
Chapter 69
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.
12
+15 BONUS
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?
Chapter 70
Back in the camp, Carissa managed to compose herself.
Despite her promotion to regiment commander, she still had to share a small tent with Cynthia and the others. The only difference was the addition of two new blankets sent from Tower City.
Since Bun and Travis were men, a curtain was drawn in the middle of the tent for privacy while they undressed to tend to their wounds.
Everyone had suffered minor injuries, though nothing serious. The cold weather made the pain more intense than usual.
Carissa handed out medicine for their injuries, but no one needed it. After all, everyone going to battle brought their own supplies, and each guild had its own healing remedies.
Carissa took back the medicine. “Never mind.”
“Carissa,+heard your ex–husband and his new wife are coming to support us. Won’t that be awkward when you meet them?” Cynthia asked while dressing and cleaning up the powdered medicine on the floor. “Awkward? Not at all,” Violet snorted, her face as cold as frost. “Just treat them like the pigs and dogs they are! We don’t need to waste our time on such scum.”
Bun lifted the curtain, and asked, “By the way, why did your mother marry you off to that scoundrel?”
“He promised never to take a concubine,” Carissa lay down, feeling as if she’d been run over by a cart. Her body ached all over. “Mom probably thought that after all these years in the Pathfinders Guild, I was least suited for domestic disputes and worried I’d be at a disadvantage in the fight over wives and concubines.
Cynthia, whose once delicate face was now smeared with dried blood, said, “I don’t understand domestic affairs well, but your mother was right. Unfortunately, you ended up with an ungrateful bastard.”
Bun lowered the curtain again, and wrapped his wound with more bandages. “I guess your mother must be regretting her decision, huh? If it were me, I’d have brought servants and caused a ruckus at the Valor Estate. You were so fierce in the Pathfinders Guild. Why didn’t you give him a few lashes yourself?”
Carissa closed her eyes. “The noble circles in the capital are different from the martial world. After my divorce, people already look down on me. If I beat my ex–husband, people will criticize my family even if he’s no longer my husband. It’d also bring trouble to my unmarried relatives.”
“How could it affect your relatives? It’s your own business,” Bun said, baffled.
Violet said flatly, “No, she’s right. If someone finds out that a divorced woman from your family is beating her ex–husband, who would dare to marry into your family? It would be even worse if you have younger relatives who are still unmarried.”
Violet came from a prestigious family in the southern region, and had heard many such stories. For instance, her own family had a distant aunt who caused trouble for their family and affected their reputation.
Despite an arranged engagement, Violet’s aunt eloped with a scholar and became a concubine. This led to difficulties for other family members seeking marriages, as high–status families looked down upon such scandals, and lower–status families were also deterred.
Anyway, the bottom line was that there were a lot of rules.
Violet grimaced, thinking about how such matters always caused her headaches.
+15 BONUS
“That’s not a problem. After we win the battle and return, you don’t need to deal with him. We’ll handle it for you,” Cynthia said.
Carissa opened her eyes, and smiled at Cynthia. “No need to wait for victory. They’ll be coming to the Southern Frontier soon. He’s the main general of the reinforcements. I’m thinking whether I should inform the marshal about my past with him.”
Violet pulled out a leather wine pouch from her bag, and took a swig. “You haven’t done anything wrong. so there’s no need to explain. They can come and handle it themselves.”
“Vivi, you have wine? That’s unfair! Why didn’t you share it?” Catching the scent of alcohol, Travis yanked aside the curtain and tried to grab the wine pouch from Violet’s hand.
Violet tossed the pouch to Carissa, who grabbed it and leaped out of the tent.
With a loud thud, Carissa hit the ground outside, dropping the wine pouch. She clutched her nose with both hands, wincing in pain.
“Ouch… That hurt!”
What did she bump into, a wall made of iron and copper? Her nose was about to break!
