Chapter 137

As spring arrived and the ice and snow melted, the soldiers stationed in Simonton City prepared to return to the capital. Violet and the others were torn between returning to the capital with them or returning to Meadow Ridge.

“Meadow Ridge will always be there,” Travis said, “but a triumphant return happens only once in a lifetime. We should go back and receive the people’s praise.”

They didn't have grand ambitions; their greatest aspiration was to perfect their martial arts skills. They didn't seek invincibility, only the ability to defeat any opponent.

Suddenly hailed as heroes of the Southern Frontier, they found their elevated status overwhelming.

With Aurora's injuries nearly healed, it was time for her punishment. During her time at the Southern Frontier, her relationship with Barrett had been peculiar. Her husband seemed to constantly avoid her, yet still assisted her when necessary.

For instance, when she was to be punished, Barrett pleaded with Rafael on her behalf, only to be ignored. Failing with the marshal, he turned to Carissa, hoping she might intercede.

“I know it’s presumptuous,” Barrett began, “but we’re about to return to the capital. If she endures this punishment now, she won’t be able to withstand the hardships of the journey. All mistakes are mine; I have wronged you…”

Carissa cut him off coldly. “If you know it’s presumptuous and acknowledge your fault, then how dare you ask me to intercede for her? And don’t you know that my entire family was slaughtered because of her? I’m the one who most wishes for her death. Yet, you come to me to plead on her behalf? Are you sure there’s nothing wrong with your brain?”

Her words left Barrett speechless. He stood dumbfounded, staring at the cold-faced woman before him. In his mind, he saw the face he had glimpsed on their wedding night—radiant and vibrant in the candlelight. His heart ached with bitterness.

“I know I was wrong. I’ve failed you, but I can’t fail her as well,” he said.

Carissa found the situation laughable.

“If that’s the case, why don’t you take the punishment for her? It’s only natural for a husband to take responsibility for his wife.”

Uninterested in witnessing his display of guilt and emotion, Carissa turned and left, heading to Rafael’s tent to request an audience.

Rafael was engrossed in carving something, which he immediately covered with a silk cloth upon hearing Carissa’s request.

“Let her in.”

Dylan hesitated. “I just saw General Warren speaking to General Sinclair. I’m afraid she might be here to plead for Aurora.”

Rafael glanced at him dismissively. “Do you think General Sinclair would plead for General Yates?”

Dylan shrugged, his youthful face displaying naiveté. “Maybe she thinks this is a way to win Barrett back?”

Rafael paused, then beckoned Dylan closer. “Come here.”

When Dylan stepped forward, Rafael smiled faintly, continuing to gesture. “Come closer, squat down. I see something on your face.”

Dylan touched his face, finding nothing, but still crouched down. “It’s been a while since I washed my face…”

His smile vanishing, Rafael slapped Dylan hard across the face. “It was dirty.”

Shocked, Dylan stared wide-eyed at Rafael. “Did I say something wrong?”

Rafael picked up his carving knife and tapped it lightly on Dylan’s head. “Does General Sinclair even think highly of General Warren now? You’re speaking nonsense. Let her in.”

“Yes, sir.” Dylan rubbed his head and stood up.

Rafael’s eyes narrowed as he issued a warning. “Do not let what you said slip outside. If you do, I’ll have your scalp removed.”

Dylan gulped nervously. “I understand, sir.”

It seemed Rafael hadn’t forgotten what he said to Melanie before the campaign. However, things were different now—Carissa had been married, and her purity was questionable. If Rafael still harbored such thoughts, and his mother found out, she would surely be furious.

Moreover, since she was coming to Rafael’s tent after Dylan had seen her talking with Barrett for quite some time, Carissa was definitely here to plead for Aurora.