Chapter 436
Rumors began circulating throughout the city that Aurora had been captured and violated by Westhaven soldiers. Similar rumors had surfaced after her return from the Southern Frontier, alleging capture by Sandorian soldiers, but those were quickly suppressed.
This time, however, following the apology to the Jadehill Marquis's matriarch, the Warren family faced no further public attacks. Nevertheless, the story of Aurora's capture and violation gained notoriety, spreading rapidly throughout the city within days and threatening to spill over its borders. Even the Hell Monarch Estate buzzed with discussion. Carissa found it peculiar that this long-dormant issue had resurfaced and caused such a stir.
She wondered if there had been a military leak, but the Mystic Army's training should have prevented such a breach. Upon Rafael's return from the Supreme Court, Carissa questioned him.
He sat, sipped his coffee, and frowned. "The rumors are deliberate," he said. "I received news yesterday that Westhaven's third prince has been officially declared crown prince."
"Westhaven's third prince?" Carissa repeated.
She recalled that Prince Edmund had gone to the Southern Frontier seeking revenge for Westhaven's late crown prince, Arthur. Remembering the massacre of Fawnrun City's civilians, Edmund harbored a deep hatred for Aurora. While both kingdoms had tried to conceal the incident, Edmund might not share their reticence.
"It seems likely the border situation between our kingdoms will change soon," Rafael said.
Carissa felt a heavy heart. Her maternal grandfather and his family were at the border. Her seventh uncle was dead, her third uncle had lost an arm, and only her adopted eighth uncle could assist her grandfather. The entire Sullivan family was suffering at the border, and she hadn't seen them in a long time. The thought of another war made her shudder. Westhaven was a formidable force, and while Starhaven was strong, the Southern Frontier battle had resulted in severe losses and depleted troops. Furthermore, the Hell Monarch Army and the Sinclair Army were now under Oliver's command. Although a competent general, he might struggle with large-scale warfare.
Rafael continued, "Previously, Westhaven, concerned about its reputation, would never publicly reveal the crown prince's fate at Fawnrun City. They signed a border and ceasefire agreement to appease Aurora. For the sake of their national reputation, they wouldn't easily breach the accord. But the problem is, we don't know how long the old king can hold on. If the third prince ascends the throne, it's hard to say he won't disclose the truth, given his feelings about the late crown prince."
The situation in Fawnrun City was a brewing storm. A new regime often solidifies power with decisive action. The border demarcation might be a sore point for the Westhaven people. Intelligence reports indicated resentment towards Westhaven's Marshal Liam, considered unworthy of his position.
Carissa pondered, "Why is what happened to Aurora spreading so quickly? Could there be Westhaven spies in the capital?" Westhaven spies had previously been exposed and had annihilated the Duke of Northwatch's family, most subsequently killed. The Royal Citadel and capital garrisons claimed that even if some escaped, they returned to Westhaven.
Rafael considered this. "Perhaps Edmund already made arrangements against Starhaven. He might have established a spy network. As for Aurora's case, the king will likely order it kept under wraps to prevent further speculation."
Carissa nodded. "That must be done."
The world was filled with clever minds. Given Aurora's capture and humiliation, hidden details in the Victory Pass peace treaty were easy to speculate upon. Salvador's reign was new and his foundation unsteady; otherwise, he wouldn't be so wary of his brother. If he could suppress dissent, he would.
After a moment, Rafael said, "Now, I'm worried the news didn't come from Westhaven spies."
Carissa looked up sharply. "Are you thinking Prince Yuvan is behind this? But how could he know the details of what happened in Fawnrun City?"
Their eyes met, and they spoke almost in unison, "He might have someone at Victory Pass."