Chapter 956

The confession, written entirely in Stellish, was read aloud in Westic by two interpreters for the Westhaven envoys. Icarus took full responsibility for the plot against Carissa, stating his motive stemmed from Hector's past victory over Westhaven, which resulted in significant Westhaven casualties. He also harbored a deep-seated grudge against the Sullivan family, particularly Carissa, whose grandfather, Dominic, had long defended Victory Pass and fought in numerous battles. Consumed by hatred, Icarus seized the opportunity to attack Carissa during his visit to the capital.

Even after hearing the confession, the Westhaven envoys remained tense. This linked the assassination attempt to Victory Pass, regardless of their position. They unexpectedly respected the Hell Monarch's straightforwardness in addressing this before the negotiations, rather than bringing it to the negotiating table directly. However, this also created a heavier atmosphere. They would have preferred Starhaven to be more ruthless and address the matter directly, thus avoiding the need to protect their dignity.

All the envoys, except Amos, inwardly berated Leroy, questioning his competence compared to his brother, Liam. Rafael, calmly observing, recognized the psychological game at play.

Initially, the Westhaven envoys had arrived to demand an explanation from Starhaven, holding the right to present their conditions as the aggrieved party. They could have expressed anger, questioned Starhaven, and demanded more than was fair. However, the assassination attempt placed them at a disadvantage. Their only true wrongdoing lay in the eradication of the Sinclair family. The timing—the assassination attempt occurring the night before the negotiations—was psychologically unsettling.

Leroy, placing his hand on the confession and meeting Rafael's gaze, stated, "Let's be clear. The truth of the assassination attempt remains unconfirmed. We can await the investigation. Let us return to the main topic."

Rafael, his posture rigid and face solemn, responded, "You don't know if it's true? Didn't you hear it with your own ears last night, Mr. Stellwyn? If you doubt the attempt, why not investigate further before proceeding?"

Leroy's voice sharpened. "No, this can't be delayed! You want an explanation? Since the attempt occurred in Starhaven, your kingdom can handle the punishment according to your laws. Don't prolong this here."

Lisandra, her patience exhausted, snapped, "Shut up!" Having been awake all night and only recently leaving the inn after taking medicine, she had previously warned them that the Hell Monarch would likely raise the assassination attempt and stressed the importance of a contrite attitude. Their demeanor would directly influence Starhaven's response; arrogance would be met with arrogance. Leroy, however, was creating further problems.

Leroy glared irritably at Lisandra. Despite their familial relationship, she showed him no respect. Overwhelmed by her cold expression and authority, he fell silent.

Lisandra rose and bowed slightly to Rafael. "Commander Icarus, a Westhaven official, attempted to assassinate your princess consort—a grievous offense. As a Westhaven grand princess, I apologize. His punishment is for your kingdom to decide."

Rafael, rising in return, nodded respectfully. "Very well. We shall do as you say, Your Highness. This matter is closed."

Lisandra, aware that Icarus's attempt placed them at a disadvantage, recognized its inevitability. Rafael's leniency effectively set the tone for the negotiations. She shot Leroy a sidelong glance. "See? A true general plans ahead. And you?"