Chapter 576
That night, Barrett remained at Grace Mansion. For several nights, he had stayed at Viola's.
Aurora began decorating her courtyard, using her own funds since family resources were unavailable. She selected the strongest wood for the doors and windows. Ironwood, being scarce, required her to pay a high price to secure it from lumber merchants. She renamed the courtyard "Blessed Haven."
Having left the army and lacking battle armor, she secretly commissioned a protective heart shield, wearing it day and night to deter potential assassins.
She was unconcerned about Barrett and Viola's affection, holding no respect for a man who had changed his heart. She had previously vowed not to be entangled in domestic disputes and to avoid becoming the type of person she despised. Furthermore, she doubted Barrett's feelings for Viola, believing them nonexistent. His gaze lacked love; he wasn't even adept at hiding it, and others easily perceived his disinterest. Only Viola seemed unaware.
Perhaps Viola wasn't foolish, but she had little choice. Even false affection was preferable to the cold indifference she'd endured. Aurora had no desire to interfere; she had everything she needed—food and clothing for all seasons. Lacking other options, she could afford to wait.
She intended to investigate who was targeting her, knowing it was unlikely to be Carissa. However, blaming Carissa would halt Barrett's feelings for her. Ultimately, Aurora remained troubled.
Despite this, she had no intention of meddling in Barrett and Viola's apparent romance. After all, Barrett still required the Prince family's support to protect the Warren family.
In Westglade, Lawrence's condition improved rapidly under Sebastian and Kayla's care. Most of his injuries healed, but a shattered kneecap continued to plague one knee. Sebastian applied ointment and bandages, but progress remained elusive. He insisted on determining the extent of the damage upon their return to the capital.
Mid-July, the group departed for the capital. Kiera's wedding was August 8th. Though Luke and the Ministry of Protocol handled arrangements, Rafael and Carissa needed to return beforehand. As her brother and sister-in-law, they were needed in the days leading up to the event.
During their time in Westglade, Violet became acquainted with the Septimus Tetra reconnaissance team. Having fought together on the Southern Frontier, they quickly bonded. Violet shared stories about the recaptured cities—the dangers of taking Illyrian City and the details of capturing Simonton City. Her vivid storytelling made the battles feel real.
Violet also gained a brother in Thomas, whom she initially mistook for Septimus due to her prior interest in him. During their stay, Thomas often seemed lost in thought, prompting Violet's comfort and admiration. His sense of responsibility led her to propose a sworn brotherhood.
Sworn brotherhoods were common in the martial world, and Thomas appreciated Violet's straightforwardness. He suggested, "There's no need for a formal brotherhood. If you wish, have my mother accept you as a goddaughter; we'll be like siblings."
"Great, let's have a little ceremony!" Violet exclaimed happily.
On their return journey, at an inn, Carissa commented, "You're making a significant decision about a godmother. Shouldn't you inform your family? It's better to let them know in the capital."
Violet replied with a light laugh, "No need. Besides my marriage, I make my own decisions. Besides, I'm quite favored in my family. Just look at your marriage—I easily influenced them."