Chapter 971

In the Hell Monarch Estate's council hall, Jacob presented the profiles of three female officials: Penny Durham, Yuna Rutherford, and Yasmine Stein.

"These three are Grand Princess Lisandra's close confidantes. In Westhaven, women rarely hold important government positions. However, Ms. Durham was the first female official to rise to a fifth-rank position. Grand Princess Lisandra highly favors her. Next is Ms. Stein, the legitimate daughter of the head of Westhaven's Stein family; Marshal Liam's wife is her aunt. Finally, there's Ms. Rutherford, who comes from a commoner background and earned her position by topping the women's imperial exams. She's been working alongside Grand Princess Lisandra on state affairs. All three have served the Grand Princess since the late king's reign, and our investigation shows they are highly loyal to her."

Rafael reviewed the documents—names, ages, personalities, backgrounds, family information, career start dates, and accomplishments—carefully. Afterward, he focused on Penny's profile.

"She's been with Grand Princess Lisandra the longest and has always been loyal, so it's unlikely to be her," Jacob pointed out.

"She served as a female official by the late crown prince's side for two years?" Rafael asked.

Jacob nodded. "Yes. She was selected by Grand Princess Lisandra and sent to the late crown prince's court. Like Starhaven's crown prince, he had his own smaller court to handle administrative affairs, assisting with his transitionoh!"

His eyes widened.

"She served Prince Arthur for two years and was loyal to him. That means she's likely to support King Edmund and Mr. Stellwyn! She's in the pro-war faction."

"Where's Travis?" Rafael asked. "Have him go to Concord Lodge and inform Carissa and Violet. Tell them to keep a close watch on Penny and monitor Grand Princess Lisandra's condition closely."

He couldn't go himself; as the lead negotiator, his presence at Concord Lodge would arouse suspicion among the Westhaven envoys. Travis was stationed by the council hall door, on standby per Everett's instructions.

Upon hearing Rafael's instructions, Travis replied, "I'll go at once." He then swiftly departed.

Chapter 971 (Continued)

Winona sighed. "Unfortunately, we can't secretly monitor Concord Lodge."

"That's unwise," Everett said. "If someone is discovered spying during negotiations, it will damage the peace talks."

"Yes, sir," Winona replied, then excused herself to use the restroom.

Meanwhile, Travis was already riding towards Concord Lodge.

At Concord Lodge, Carissa, after speaking with Aria, prioritized identifying supporters and opponents of Lisandra's plans. She then informed Aria that Sebastian could be summoned immediately if needed after the discussion concluded.

Returning to their quarters, Carissa and Violet discussed the situation. Violet's expression darkened. "What should we do? Could this be a trap?"

Carissa shared her concerns. The Westhaven envoys were divided—some supported Lisandra, others opposed her. Without certainty about Lisandra's condition, they couldn't forcibly bring in a physician. If Lisandra were unharmed, such action would create a major problem.

Even if Lisandra were truly unconscious, it could be a scheme. She might have been poisoned to feign illness, creating an opportunity to eliminate opposition. Once a physician was present, they could treat her, making it seem like nothing happened.

The situation was complex, but a decision was necessary. If Lisandra were truly in danger, the pro-war faction would exploit the opportunity, pushing for war.