Chapter 64
Barrett didn't share Aurora's optimism. While he had initially been eager to go to the Southern Frontier, that was under the assumption they would face only Sandorian soldiers. Now, with Westhaven's three hundred thousand soldiers pouring into Illyria and Simonton, and with Sandoria possibly sending even more, the situation had changed drastically. The enemy forces now numbered around five hundred thousand. Meanwhile, Barrett's forces totaled less than one hundred and twenty thousand. Combined with Rafael's exhausted and under-resourced forces, they only had about three hundred thousand soldiers in total.
Rafael's forces were severely exhausted, with many wounded soldiers and a shortage of supplies. They were waiting for provisions on empty stomachs, making the capture of Illyria impossible at the moment. They would have to wait for reinforcements.
Winter made the situation even worse. The Southern Frontier was harsh and cold, a severe disadvantage for Westhaven's forces. The people of Sandoria, however, were known for their resilience in such conditions and could endure the cold easily.
Given the disparity in strength, this battle would be very difficult, especially if Sandoria continued sending reinforcements to reclaim lost territories and take full control of the Southern Frontier. A complete defeat was almost certain if that happened. Of course, winning would lead to great achievements; conversely, losing could mean losing one's life on the battlefield. Hector and his sons were among those who sacrificed their lives on the Southern Frontier, highlighting the battlefield's danger.
Furthermore, Aurora had promised to get reinforcements to the Southern Frontier before Westhaven's forces arrived—a virtually impossible task, yet she had boasted about it easily. Her overconfidence likely stemmed from her lack of experience in official matters. If the battle ended in defeat, both Barrett and Aurora would likely face severe repercussions.
Though it was a golden opportunity, Barrett remained anxious and cautious, far less optimistic than Aurora.
Aurora suddenly asked, "By the way, do you know why His Majesty has stationed royal guards at the gate of Northwatch Estate to keep an eye on Carissa?"
Barrett shook his head, unwilling to discuss Carissa further; it would only lead to more arguments.
Aurora adjusted her cloak, a sly smile curling her lips. "It's to keep her from causing trouble. I heard she went to the palace the day after our wedding and was escorted back by royal guards. Since then, the guards have been stationed at Northwatch Estate. This clearly indicates she made unreasonable demands when she visited the king. Maybe it's related to…"
Barrett had heard something similar but hadn't investigated further, not wanting to upset Aurora. He was surprised she had investigated herself.
+15 BONUS
Aurora linked her arm with his, a triumphant glint in her eyes. "I'm curious to see if she'll still maintain her noble, refined demeanor when we return victorious from the Southern Frontier, or if she'll reveal the envy she hides."
Barrett couldn't help but say, "The Sinclairs have countless military achievements. I doubt she'll be jealous."
Aurora snorted. "Her only connection to those achievements is enjoying the honor and luxury brought by her family's success! Has she earned any of it herself?"
Barrett sighed. "Aurora, let's not talk about her. It doesn't matter how she fares—whether she's wealthy or destitute—it doesn't concern us."
"Of course it doesn't," Aurora agreed, but then added with false sympathy, "Still, I don't need to make things difficult for her. Women are pitiable to begin with."
Barrett fell silent, contemplating her words. Previously, he would have admired and felt reassured by Aurora's sentiments. After marrying her, he realized that her views on women were even more contemptuous than most men's.
The night was like a giant beast, swallowing the world in darkness. Not a single ray of light could be seen, and even the stars were hidden behind thick clouds.