Melody of Strength novel

Chapter 517

That day, Claire reported that several suspicious individuals had entered the capital and checked into Prestige Lodge.

The reason they were considered suspicious was because they carried a distinct aura of violence, one that set them apart from the usual martial arts practitioners. This bloodthirsty presence was something the scouts were highly sensitive to.

As soon as the scouts detected it, they began to track the individuals closely. After they checked into Prestige Lodge and didn’t come out, the scouts reported their findings.

Upon hearing the report, Violet went to find Carissa.

Carissa frowned when she heard the news. The capital was the most prosperous and bustling place in the kingdom, with a significant number of merchants and martial artists coming and going.

“People who have killed excessively often carry a distinct scent,” Violet said. “That’s what Claire said, and that’s why those people are highly suspicious. Could they be plotting to assassinate the king?”ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Carissa thought for a moment before shaking her head. “An assassination attempt on the king would need to occur when he is outside the palace. Attempting to assassinate him inside the palace would be the height of folly, especially since they are only a few in number. An inside accomplice would be necessary for such a plot.”

“Should we ask Michael to investigate the palace guards?” Violet suggested.

“No,” Carissa said as she clasped her hands together and looked out at the overcast sky.

The summer rains had begun. Though the capital was situated further north, it rained more after summer.

She recalled the recent issues surrounding the new crown prince of Westhaven.

“Has Claire mentioned if these individuals seem like they’re from Starhaven? Or could they be from Westhaven?”

“If they managed to enter the capital smoothly, they’re likely from Starhaven,” Violet replied.

“Not necessarily. If they’ve been in Starhaven for a long time, it wouldn’t be difficult for them to obtain the necessary papers to enter the capital.”

“Do you suspect they might be from Westhaven?” Violet asked.

Carissa replied, “I have some suspicion, but I’m also considering the possibility that they might be agents sent by Prince Yuvan. However, I’m puzzled by his motives for sending people into the capital. If they’re from Westhaven, I would assume they’re here to seek revenge for their deceased crown prince. But if Prince Yuvan is behind this, I can’t even begin to guess his reasons.”

Violet said, “It could be that we’re worrying too much and being overly sensitive. Perhaps they’re just a few wanderers coming to the capital to seek their fortune.”

Carissa didn’t share this false sense of security. “Keep an eye on them. Report immediately if there’s any news.”

“Don’t worry, I’m on it,” Violet replied, taking a sip of coffee and glancing out with wide eyes. “Looks like

it’s going to rain. Ryan is scheduled to go to Silverbrook Academy tomorrow. I hope the rain holds off until then.”

“Yeah,” Carissa responded absentmindedly, her mind preoccupied with the suspicious individuals and their possible motives.

Could they be Westhaven spies?

She couldn’t bring herself to say those words to Violet. In fact, just hearing the mention of Westhaven spies felt like a dagger driving deep into her heart.

Liam had told her that apart from those who were killed on the spot, he had dealt with all the remaining Westhaven spies in Starhaven. His words should be credible.

After thinking for a while, Carissa said to Violet, “Vivi, find out about Barrett’s recent duty schedule.”

“No need to ask. Duty changes every ten days. These days, he’s on daytime duty, and he’ll switch to night duty in twenty days.”

“Night duty.” Carissa said softly. “On the day he changes shifts, keep an eye on Prestige Lodge.”

“Do you still think they’re targeting Aurora?” Violet asked, unconvinced. “If they’re after her would they néed so many people? Aurora’s martial skills aren’t that great.”

Carissa replied, “We’ve fought alongside her and sparred with her, so we know her skills. But before that, she was renowned far and wide as Starhaven’s top female general. It’s possible that someone might overestimate her abilities.”

“Fine,” Violet said with a touch of annoyance. “We hate her so much we wish she were dead, but we can’t let her die.”

“We can’t let her die,” Carissa repeated.

As she said it, a sudden realization hit her.

“No, it can’t be Westhaven’s new crown prince! His goal wouldn’t have just been to kill Aurora. The reason we’re keeping Aurora alive is so that he can hold her accountable later. If he had someone kill her, he wouldn’t be able to use her as leverage for the Fawnrun City incident to negotiate with us. He wouldn’t make such a mistake.”