Chapter 955

Rafael wisely avoided commenting on the previous subject and quickly changed the topic. "When did you arrive? Why didn't you send someone to let me know?"

"You have your own things to handle. I'm just here to keep an eye on things for you. How's everything going? Have you captured the target?" Everett asked.

Everett's tone indicated his awareness of the evening's assassination attempt.

Rafael, looking pleased, answered proudly, "Carissa and the others have already apprehended Commander Icarus and delivered him to the Supreme Court. He claimed to be the best fighter in Westhaven, but was utterly defeated by Carissa."

Everett grunted noncommittally, glancing at Carissa. "She has no real skills except martial arts. Icarus isn't the top fighter in Westhaven, either. That kingdom has many skilled warriors who choose not to serve the court. Beating him isn't much of an achievement. Don't get too proud of yourself."

"Yes, sir," Carissa replied obediently.

People's views of Carissa had changed after her ordeal. Some pitied her, some admired her, and others envied her. But Everett treated her the same as he had at Meadow Ridge—no difference at all.

Jacob then summarized events since the palace banquet: details about Edgeview Estate, activities at Hartstone Estate, and reports from Concorde Lodge.

Before Rafael could speak, Everett said, "Everything else can wait, but sleep shouldn't be delayed. I know you're in charge of the negotiations, and everything depends on you. Go get some rest."

Rafael complied with his mentor's order, but had one more question. "What did you mean when you said my martial uncle blew up your courtyard?"

Jacob nearly jumped, frantically signaling for silence. Rafael, however, seemed oblivious or unconcerned.

"He was playing with gunpowder and blew it up," Everett replied.

"What?" Rafael exclaimed, surprised. "Your courtyard is so large. Did he blow up the whole thing?"

Everett shrugged. "Not really. Just my bedroom."

"I see. Then you should stay in the capital for a while before returning," Rafael suggested.

Jacob blinked in surprise; he hadn't considered that a relevant question.

Everett, eager to conclude, urged, "You two should go rest now."

Kyle, who had been silent, stood to leave, stating he was tired. Before he could move, Everett's sharp voice cut through the air. "What, are you going to the negotiations tomorrow, too?"

Kyle sank back down without a word.

Once Rafael, Carissa, and Jacob left, Everett's voice turned cold. "Your mentor blew up my bedroom on purpose to force me to the capital and keep an eye on your junior apprentice. He doesn't want me to be comfortable, so neither should you expect any comfort."

Kyle remained silent; there was nothing he could say.

The next day, negotiations took place at the Diplomatic Affairs Department. Despite their best efforts, the Westhaven envoys' exhaustion was evident. Lisandra, though a grand princess, held no official position in Westhaven, and wore her formal court attire. Leroy was far from his usual energetic self; dark circles under his eyes highlighted his weariness, and the others were similarly fatigued—they had likely stayed up all night.

Rafael and Davis led the Starhaven negotiations, assisted by Diplomatic Affairs Department officials. Jeremiah observed but did not participate.

A long, intricately carved cherry wood table sat in the center of the hall, surrounded by chairs. Refreshments were provided.

Rafael gestured for everyone to be seated. Documents were placed on the table, and interpreters were present. As customary, proceedings were recorded.

Before the discussions began, Rafael said, "Last night, a deeply upsetting incident occurred. Grand Princess Lisandra, I'm sure you and our honored guests are aware. Your nation's Sovereign Guard commander colluded with assassins to murder my wife. I have his confession here, and I'd like you all to review it."

Copies of the confession had been prepared, eliminating the need for individual readings. Diplomatic Affairs Department officials distributed them.

Last night's discussions among the Westhaven envoys had centered around Icarus's statement. Their tension and unease were palpable as they received the documents.

Once the confessions were distributed, Rafael continued, "This incident took place last night. I expect Grand Princess Lisandra to provide an explanation."