Chapter 525

“Even if they were from Westhaven,” Barrett said, “they were still civilians. We had an agreement not to harm civilians. It was a promise from the rulers to the people, benefiting both kingdoms. Didn't you consider that the people of Victory Pass might also be slaughtered?”

Aurora snorted, her eyes filled with disdain. “As a former military general, you should know better, Barrett. You're not cut out for the battlefield. You're too soft, lacking the necessary resolve. If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have achieved anything. Even with General Sullivan, I had to strongly advocate for sending troops to burn the supply depot in Fawnrun City. Without me, you wouldn't have even accomplished that.

“You gained merit because I earned it. I signed the treaty, and you, as the commanding general of the reinforcements, reaped the benefits. Now you have the audacity to blame me for our success? Don't you find yourself despicable and shameful?”

Her tone, filled with mockery and contempt, crushed Barrett's pride.

He was stunned. He knew she was wrong, but didn't know how to respond.

“Nothing to say now?” Aurora asked, a vindictive smile playing on her lips. “Barrett, look at what I gave up for you. And what did you give up for me? I was at my peak when I married you, as your second wife. I remained steadfast during your fall from grace, yet you married Viola after your divorce from Carissa.

“Do you think you wronged Carissa? The person you truly wronged is me!”

Her voice, though soft, was laced with profound bitterness, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“The king arranged our marriage, and I planned our future. What did Carissa ever do for you? When you wanted to marry me, she left you. She requested a divorce and kept her dowry. She was heartless and showed no affection, yet you still hold her in such high regard.

“What has Carissa ever done for you? Managed your household? Sent small gifts and seasonal clothing? Attended to your mother? But weren't those her responsibilities? They were her duties, not special sacrifices! What have you done wrong to her? Just because you didn't keep your promise about not taking a concubine?

“But look, everyone compromises. I married you as a second wife despite being a general. Wasn't that a compromise? Why is it acceptable for me to compromise, but not for her? She held you accountable for breaking your promise, sought a divorce, and made everyone scorn you, tarnishing your family's reputation. You should be angry with her, but why do you feel guilty?”

Barrett's heart ached. Everything she said seemed true.

“The person you wronged is me. First Carissa, then Viola. I never complained, remaining in your family, waiting for another opportunity to prove myself. I continued to plan for our future. Barrett, was your affection for me truly just a momentary impulse?”

She covered her face, tears soaking her fingers. Her sobs were stifled and heavy. After a long while, she choked out, “Do you know how hard every day has been for me? If another woman had endured what I have, she would have ended her life.”

Aurora's crying left Barrett confused and upset. She was right. No matter what, she was someone he had deeply cared for.

He stood, embraced her. “I’m sorry. It’s my fault. I…”

Suddenly, a sharp sound pierced the air—a small arrow flew swiftly through the window, heading straight for them. Barrett pulled Aurora back; the arrow embedded itself in the wooden screen behind them.

A small arrow? At such close range!

Barrett sprang up, retrieving two swords from the wall. He threw one to Aurora. They exchanged wary glances, gripping their swords and moving cautiously along the wall.

Aurora's heart raced.

Assassins? How could there be assassins? Could they be Westhaven spies? Carissa's family had been slaughtered by Westhaven spies.