Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)

Barrett said, "Even if they were Westhaven people, they were still civilians. We had an agreement not to harm civilians. It was a promise from the rulers to the people, and it benefited the citizens of both kingdoms. Did you never consider that the people of Victory Pass might also be at risk of slaughter?"

Aurora snorted, her eyes filled with disdain. "As a former military general, you should know better, Barrett. You're not cut out for the battlefield. You're too soft and lack the resolve needed. If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have achieved anything. Even in front of General Sullivan, you needed me to strongly advocate for sending troops to burn the supply depot in Fawnrun City. Without me, you wouldn't have even achieved that.

"You gained merit because I earned it first. I signed the treaty, and you, as the commanding general of the reinforcements, reaped the benefits of my accomplishments. Now, you have the audacity to blame me for achieving success? Don't you find yourself despicable and shameful?"

Her tone, filled with mockery and contempt, seemed to trample Barrett's pride into the dirt.

Barrett was stunned. He was fully aware that what she was saying was wrong, but he didn't know how to respond.

"Nothing to say now?" Aurora said, with a smile that suggested she felt vindicated. "Barrett, look at what I gave up for you. And what did you give up for me? I was at my peak when I chose to marry you as your second wife. I remained steadfast during your fall from grace, and yet you married Viola after your divorce from Carissa.

"Do you think you've wronged Carissa? The person you've truly wronged is me!"

Her voice was soft but laden with profound bitterness, tears slipping down her cheeks.

"The king arranged our marriage, and I planned everything for our future. What did Carissa ever do for you? When you wanted to marry me as a rightful wife, she turned her back on you. She requested a divorce and left with her dowry. She was heartless and showed no affection, yet you still hold her in such high regard.

"What has Carissa ever done for you? Managed your household? Sent your family small gifts and seasonal clothing? Attended to your mother? But weren't those things expected of her? They were her responsibilities, not her special sacrifices for you! What have you done wrong to her? Just because you didn't keep your promise about not taking a concubine?

"But look, everyone has to make compromises. I married you as a second wife despite being a general. Wasn't that a compromise on my part? Why is it acceptable for me to compromise but not for her? She held you accountable for breaking your promise, sought a divorce, and made everyone scorn you, tarnishing the reputation of your family. You should be angry with her, but why do you feel guilty?"

Barrett's heart ached with bitterness. Everything seemed to connect just as she said.

"The person you've wronged is me. You first had Carissa, then Viola. I never complained and remained in your family, waiting for another opportunity to prove myself. I continued to plan for our future. Barrett, was your affection for me truly just a momentary impulse?"

She covered her face, tears soaking her fingers. Her sobs were stifled and heavy. After a long while, she choked out, "Do you know how hard every day is for me? If another woman had gone through what I've endured, she would have ended her life by now."

Aurora's crying left Barrett feeling both confused and upset. She was right. No matter what, she was someone he used to care about deeply.

He stood, walked over, and embraced her. "I'm sorry. It's my fault. I..."

Suddenly, a sharp sound pierced the

air-a small arrow flew swiftly through the window, heading straight for them. Barrett

immediately pulled Aurora bonet

and

the arrow embedded itself into the wooden partition screen behind

them.

A small arrow? And at such close range!

Barrett sprang up, quickly retrieving a pair of swords from the wall. He threw one to Aurora. The two of them exchanged wary glances. They gripped their swords and moved cautiously along the wall. Aurora's heart raced.

Assassins? How could there be assassins? Could they be Westhaven spies?

Carissa's family had been slaughtered by Westhaven spies.