Chapter 986

After the Westhaven envoys departed the capital, Salvador swiftly punished Dominic and Barrett. Dominic's military leadership had been lax, but considering his years of dedicated service defending Victory Pass and his near-fatal injuries sustained before Barrett and Aurora's journey to Fawnrun City, Salvador showed mercy. He allowed Dominic to retire and return to Victory Pass for a peaceful retirement.

A subsequent edict transferred command of Victory Pass to Wyatt, with Wallace as his deputy. The unresolved border issue necessitated continued Sullivan family involvement.

Dominic then left the Sullivan Estate and entered the palace to express his gratitude. His family remained at Victory Pass, where he would return after retirement, though no longer in command. His accomplishments, however significant, would not earn him a noble title, a fact he accepted without regret, having never sought such honors.

Barrett also faced punishment, though his contribution of valuable information during the Westhaven negotiations earned him leniency. He was demoted to deputy commander of the Nightsteel Guard and received a three-year salary reduction. Ian was promoted to commander, thus leading both of Salvador's personal guard divisions.

Showing exceptional clemency, Salvador allowed Rafael and his household to handle the two Westhaven spies privately. Rafael consulted Carissa, asking whether she preferred to handle the matter herself or leave it to the Ministry of Justice.

Carissa summoned Lulu and sought her opinion. While Aurora was responsible for instigating the Sinclair family massacre, the Westhaven spies had carried out the killings. Lulu, a virgin killer, knelt before Rafael and Carissa, her teeth clenched in fury. "I want to watch them die," she declared, "as a tribute to the Sinclair family's spirits."

A sharp pain pierced Carissa's chest, her eyes burning with unshed tears. "Alright," she whispered. "I'll take you there."

Carissa had previously hesitated, unwilling to personally kill them. She had no desire to even see them—their presence evoked the horrors she witnessed upon returning home that day to find her family brutally murdered.

+25 BONUS

Chapter One

But she hadn't had the opportunity to kill a single spy then. Now, the two remaining spies, constantly evading capture, had fallen into Winona's hands. Fate, it seemed, had orchestrated this moment. With Lulu at her side, Carissa would exact her revenge.

After dinner, darkness had fallen. As the lights of Hell Monarch Estate illuminated the night, Carissa accepted the sharp dagger from Winona, took Lulu's hand, and stepped outside.

Rafael and Violet accompanied them. He rode horseback, while the three women travelled in a carriage driven by Travis, who had volunteered his services.

Kyle and Winona also wished to accompany them, but Everett dissuaded them. He believed Carissa's husband and close friends were sufficient; her guild members were only needed if truly necessary.

During their recent trip to the capital, Everett had observed the couple's mature handling of affairs, bringing him much reassurance. He could now let go, knowing they were capable, and return to alleviate Adrian's anxieties. The troublemaker had changed.

Patrick awaited at the Ministry of Justice. Anticipating the arrival from Hell Monarch Estate, he intended to oversee the transfer of the spies.

However, Barrett unexpectedly refused to leave, despite Salvador's pardon. He insisted on remaining until the following day. His reasons remained unclear. Was he expecting a more favorable outcome the next day? Did he believe a delayed release would benefit his career prospects?

Upon their arrival, Patrick immediately ordered the spies to be brought forth and then went to greet the party.

"Greetings, Your Highness, Commander Sinclair. Your arrival is rather late. I expected you tomorrow."

"Greetings, Mr. Lloyd!" replied Carissa, Violet, and Travis.

Patrick addressed Carissa formally. As a guard commander, her rank was lower than his, necessitating her reciprocal formality.

Patrick nodded, gesturing for them to enter. His expression turned serious. "Please be seated. They will be here shortly."