Chapter 959

After the Westhaven envoys departed the Diplomatic Affairs Department and returned to their lodgings, the Starhaven negotiators remained to continue discussions about the next round of talks. Jeremiah participated in the conversation, his voice calm but firm.

“If we compensate with grain, we cannot offer a large quantity. Last year's poor harvest and insufficient military wages prevent it. Providing 3,000,000 bushels would essentially fund their war effort. We can compensate, but not with more than 300,000 bushels.”

He paused, then added, “Furthermore, His Majesty insists on no concessions regarding the border issue.”

Having made his points, he left the room. Observing Rafael's negotiation style, Jeremiah felt confident about their progress.

Meanwhile, at the Ministry of Justice, Barrett requested a meeting with Patrick. Troubled by his conversation with Aurora the previous night, he sought Patrick's advice. Aurora had mentioned a plan to convince Westhaven to take Dominic, a plan Barrett couldn't comprehend.

“She really said that?” Patrick asked, meeting Barrett in person. “And how?”

Barrett shook his head. “She didn't elaborate, refusing to explain when I asked. But she’s mapped out an escape route, and she’s confident she can convince the Westhaven envoys to take General Sullivan.”

Patrick was unaware of the negotiation's outcome but knew Dominic would be discussed. Starhaven's refusal would prevent Westhaven from taking him. However, if the talks ended without resolution, how could Westhaven take Dominic afterward? More importantly, how could Aurora be so sure she could persuade the Westhaven envoys?

“That seems unlikely,” Patrick said. “If captured, she'll be in a prison cart. The Westhaven envoys despise her. No one will listen, regardless of what she says.”

Barrett frowned. “I agree, it seems improbable. But she's convinced Westhaven will take General Sullivan. I don't understand her certainty. I'm confined here, so I ask you to send a message to—no, to Madam Zoey—and ask her to investigate the servants at Valor Estate.”

“You suspect Aurora has been contacting someone outside through the servants, perhaps conspiring?” Patrick asked thoughtfully.

Barrett considered this, unable to resolve his doubts.

“I’m unsure,” he admitted, “but investigation is prudent. If anything arises, please inform Madam Zoey to inform Cari—I mean, Lady Carissa.”

Patrick, confused, nodded. “Why Madam Zoey? Why not your wife?” He knew Zoey was Barrett's sister-in-law.

Barrett appeared uncomfortable. After a moment's hesitation, he replied, “Madam Zoey has managed her household for years and is incredibly meticulous. She'll uncover any suspicious activity among the servants.”

Patrick, noting Barrett's expression, suspected discord between Barrett and Viola, or perhaps Viola's ineptitude in household management.

“Very well,” Patrick said. “I’ll inform Commander Sinclair. It’s more appropriate for her to approach Madam Zoey. With the Earl of Silverstone absent, my personal involvement or my wife's would be inappropriate and might cause misunderstandings.”

Barrett nodded eagerly. “Precisely, sir. Please act swiftly.”

Patrick left the Ministry of Justice, instructing the kitchen staff to improve Barrett's dinner with additional meat dishes. Afterward, he personally informed Carissa of Barrett's concerns.

Carissa also found Aurora's behavior peculiar. After her capture, Aurora had focused on implicating Dominic, initially seeming a desperate attempt to shift blame. Even after interrogation and torture, and being explicitly told that her implication of others wouldn't change her fate, her persistence remained inexplicable.

Hearing Patrick's report, Carissa decided to investigate immediately, proceeding to Silverstone Estate.