Chapter 939
Carissa listened closely to Leroy and Rafael’s conversation, absorbing every word. They were doing everything possible to avoid war, but couldn't let Westhaven believe they wouldn't fight. Leroy, in particular, needed to believe only the Sinclair and Sullivan families opposed war, while the Hell Monarch secretly desired to regain his military authority through battle.
Carissa shifted her attention to Lisandra, who spoke fluent Stellish effortlessly.
“I’ve long wanted to meet you, Lady Carissa,” Lisandra said sincerely. “I ensured my assignment to this mission. Meeting you is a primary objective.”
While Lisandra had said this before, it felt more genuine now— heartfelt, rather than the earlier diplomatic flattery.
Carissa smiled. “It’s a great honor to meet you, Your Highness.”
Sitting close, Lisandra looked less exhausted than at the city gates the previous day. The rest had clearly benefited her; the dark circles under her eyes, faintly concealed by makeup, were gone. Yet, despite her appearance, she seemed older than her years.
Carissa knew Lisandra had been a regent, navigating Westhaven through internal and external turmoil—hardships unknown to the public. Despite anticipating tomorrow's tense opposition, Carissa respected the grand princess.
After brief pleasantries, the banquet began. Everyone seated themselves, and the meal was served. The Westhaven envoys remained on the right, while Rafael and Carissa sat together. Victoria, present only to show respect to Lisandra and the envoys, did not join the meal. The king and queen were in attendance, along with various princes and powerful officials.
Naturally, Harvey and Heather were absent. Yuvan attended with Fiona, bringing Molly, his princess consort.
As the banquet progressed, the flowing wine and clinking glasses created an illusion of cordiality between the kingdoms. Salvador made only polite remarks, wishing everyone a pleasant evening, but said little else.
A palpable distance existed between Carissa and Rafael. They avoided eye contact, and their chairs were noticeably far apart despite their proximity. Leroy and Amos occasionally cast curious glances their way, trying to determine if the distance was genuine or a pretense. It was crucial to know.
Their stance on war hinged on the Hell Monarch. Everyone believed Rafael's apparent affection for his wife would compel him to avoid conflict, especially for Dominic's sake.
Salvador clearly also desired peace. Without recorded massacres of villagers or war prisoners, justifying an immediate shift to war if negotiations failed would be difficult. Such an abrupt escalation would seem unreasonable and likely spark public outrage.
But what did the Hell Monarch fear? Public discontent wouldn't target him, but Salvador. Other nations and tribes would deem the king incompetent, leaving the Hell Monarch unscathed. In fact, war would greatly benefit Rafael, especially if he harbored ambitions of replacing Salvador. Reclaiming his military power would serve his goals without downside. As for marital affection—that was debatable. Carissa, a divorced woman, was hardly someone to hold in high regard.
Midway through the banquet, Leroy, heavily intoxicated, stood, claiming he needed to relieve himself. He gestured for Icarus to accompany him. Derek arranged for Galen to guide them to the restroom. Leroy dismissed Galen, instructing him to wait while Icarus assisted him inside.
Knowing Leroy likely wanted to speak privately, Icarus waited until they were alone, then asked, “Mr. Stellwyn, is there something you wish to discuss?”
Leroy narrowed his eyes. “Commander Icarus, I noticed the Hell Monarch seems indifferent toward his princess consort. Do you agree?”
“It’s hard to say,” Icarus replied uncertainly.
A cold glint flickered in Leroy’s gaze. “Test it.”
“Test it? How?” Icarus asked, confused.
Leroy, having already devised a plan, leaned close and whispered instructions.
Icarus frowned, silent for a moment. “But… Carissa is highly skilled in martial arts, and we’re in Starhaven’s capital. Isn’t this too risky?”
Leroy scoffed. “How strong can one woman be? You’re Westhaven’s strongest warrior. Don’t tell me you can’t handle one woman.”