For several days, Carissa had attended court meetings, gradually understanding Jeremiah's assertion that in matters of state, every opinion held merit. The debates were endless, directionless. Arguments raged, yet nothing was resolved. Carissa felt she could no longer participate. She was overwhelmed by conflicting opinions, unsure how to proceed.

Furthermore, Salvador's health hadn't improved; his persistent cough betrayed his weakening body, despite his attempts at composure. Some, particularly young officials—students of Malcolm, swayed by Kylie—exploited the situation, suggesting it was time to name a crown prince. They actively supported Connor. Seeing Salvador's decline and the kingdom's mounting internal and external troubles, they pressed for a swift resolution to the succession.

Malcolm was furious, his face reddening with anger. His strong objections, however, only fueled speculation that he was strategically retreating or distancing himself. The situation pushed Salvador to the brink, leaving everyone in chaos, desperately scrambling for solutions.

Seeking respite from the turmoil, Carissa used military training as an excuse to withdraw from court. She then spoke with Jacob and Kyle.

Jacob frowned. “Isn’t the queen under house arrest? How can she still cause trouble? At a time like this, she's endangering herself and the Quinton family.”

Carissa cared little for the Quintons or Kylie, but the once-unified court was undeniably fractured.

Kyle offered a suspicion. “What if Prince Nicholas is orchestrating this push for a crown prince? The queen's supporters—could they be his? He's always been adept at gaining followers.”

Jacob considered this. “It wouldn't be surprising. Prince Connor is mediocre at best. Naming him would surely anger His Majesty, yet he hasn't abandoned him either. Lord Ryan tutors Connor, and Mr. Young's return suggests grooming him. But raising this issue now, so urgently, could enrage His Majesty. If he orders a halt to the queen's plans, everything she's done will be for naught.”

“And it would drag the Quinton family down with her,” Kyle sighed. “I heard the queen was intelligent and sensible, her reputation renowned. Yet, during a national crisis, all she cares about is naming a crown prince. Power truly changes a person.”

Jacob nodded. “Perhaps her reputation was a Quinton fabrication. But that's no longer our concern.”

Chapter 1352

The matter of the crown prince would be decided by court officials, with Salvador and Jeremiah making the final decision. Carissa's role was to address the immediate situation; all else was secondary.

Winona also sent updates from various fronts. Thomas hadn't directly assaulted Valken, opting instead for a siege and negotiations. This served a dual purpose: delaying matters to allow Chester to eliminate bandits and join forces, and preventing the indiscriminate slaughter of Valken's citizens.

Meanwhile, Chester had made significant progress. With Valken neutralized, his army advanced, winning decisive victories. However, the rebellion's spread, reaching even Nanyara, stretched his forces thin.

On the Southern Frontier, three victories were secured; the Sandorians hadn't breached Simonton City. Winona’s reports, a blend of intelligence and rumor, included a Sandorian scandal. Victor reportedly denounced the Starhaven people for dishonorable conduct. This was ironic, considering the Sandorians, after withdrawing and signing a non-invasion pact, now demanded the rebels uphold honor and open Simonton's gates.

The Southern Frontier's situation wasn't as dire as it seemed. The Sandorians' long supply lines and a prolonged stalemate would strain their resources, while the Southern Frontier was prosperous. Victor, bound by a vow to return victorious or face death, was trapped, unable to retreat. Leroy pressed his advantage in Victory Pass, though his forces were limited. Still, he shouldn't be underestimated; the Westhaven king's envoy, driven by revenge and ambition, commanded fervent, high-morale troops.

However, Leroy and Edmund clashed, each with their own agenda. Lisandra's influence limited Edmund's support for Leroy.

At this moment, the greatest danger resided within the capital itself; the situation there remained far from resolved.