Chapter 517

That day, Claire reported that several suspicious individuals had entered the capital and checked into Prestige Lodge. They were considered suspicious because they carried a distinct aura of violence, unlike typical martial arts practitioners. The scouts, highly sensitive to this bloodthirsty presence, immediately began tracking them. After the individuals checked into Prestige Lodge and remained inside, the scouts reported their findings.

Upon hearing this, Violet sought out Carissa.

Carissa frowned at the news. The capital, the kingdom's most prosperous and bustling city, saw a constant flow of merchants and martial artists.

"People who have killed excessively often carry a distinct scent," Violet said. "That's what Claire reported, making these individuals highly suspicious. Could they be plotting to assassinate the king?"

Carissa considered this, then shook her head. "An assassination attempt on the king would need to occur outside the palace. Attempting it inside would be folly, especially with so few assailants. An inside accomplice would be necessary."

"Should we ask Michael to investigate the palace guards?" Violet suggested.

"No," Carissa said, clasping her hands and gazing at the overcast sky. The summer rains had begun. Although the capital was further north, it rained more frequently after summer. She recalled the recent issues surrounding Westhaven's new crown prince.

"Has Claire mentioned if these individuals seem to be from Starhaven, or could they be from Westhaven?"

"If they entered the capital so smoothly, they're likely from Starhaven," Violet replied.

"Not necessarily. Long-term residents of Starhaven could easily obtain the necessary papers."

"Do you suspect Westhaven?" Violet asked.

Carissa replied, "I suspect it, but I'm also considering Prince Yuvan's agents. However, his motives for sending people to the capital puzzle me. If they're from Westhaven, I'd assume revenge for their deceased crown prince. But if Prince Yuvan is behind this, I can't guess his reasons."

Violet said, "We might be overreacting. Perhaps they're just wanderers seeking their fortune."

Carissa remained unconvinced. "Keep an eye on them. Report immediately if there's any news."

"Don't worry, I'm on it," Violet replied, taking a sip of coffee and glancing out with wide eyes. "Looks like it's going to rain. Ryan is scheduled to go to Silverbrook Academy tomorrow. I hope the rain holds off."

"Yeah," Carissa responded absently, her mind focused on the suspicious individuals and their possible motives. Could they be Westhaven spies?

She couldn't bring herself to voice that thought to Violet. Even mentioning Westhaven spies felt like a dagger to her heart. Liam had assured her that, aside from those killed on the spot, he had dealt with all remaining Westhaven spies in Starhaven. His words should be credible.

After a moment, Carissa said to Violet, "Vivi, find out about Barrett's recent duty schedule."

"No need. Duty changes every ten days. Currently, he's on daytime duty, switching to night duty in twenty days."

"Night duty," Carissa said softly. "On his shift change, keep an eye on Prestige Lodge."

"Do you still think they're targeting Aurora?" Violet asked skeptically. "If they were after her, wouldn't they need more people? Aurora's martial skills aren't that great."

Carissa replied, "We've fought and sparred with her, so we know her skills. But before that, she was renowned as Starhaven's top female general. Someone might overestimate her abilities."

"Fine," Violet said, slightly annoyed. "We hate her so much we wish she were dead, but we can't let her die."

"We can't let her die," Carissa repeated.

A sudden realization struck her.

"No, it can't be Westhaven's new crown prince! His goal wouldn't be just to kill Aurora. We're keeping Aurora alive so he can hold her accountable later. If he had her killed, he couldn't use her as leverage for the Fawnrun City incident. He wouldn't make such a mistake."