Jocelyn didn't say a word, but her face had gone deathly pale.She still harbored resentment toward Courtney, but who could blame her? Courtney had spoken up for Thomas. The mess with those families was so filthy and disgusting to hear about.The Farrell family's household was in disarray, and such vile things happened in an estate that large—wasn't it right to speak of them?Jocelyn had acted impulsively when she slapped Courtney, but Courtney had brought it upon herself. She shouldn't have defended Thomas. A good woman needed to stay away from people like that and situations like those.The two of them sat in silence, Cassidy occasionally sniffling as Jocelyn remained quiet.Her mind was a jumbled mess, running through so many thoughts. At last, she sighed softly and said, "Actually, going back to the academy wouldn't be so bad. But the queen doesn't like the academy."Ultimately, Jocelyn was just a sheltered girl. She was unable to keep secrets and was unaware of the gravity o
The rumors surrounding Rosalind didn't cease. Jacob had investigated and confirmed that someone was orchestrating the spread of these malicious tales. Long-buried incidents were being resurrected and falsely linked to her and the academy, whether or not they actually had any connection.Attacking Rosalind was, in essence, attacking Trevor as well. By extension, it also tarnished the reputation of Gracewood Women's Academy.Trevor and Gerald had long been respected figures in academic circles. But now, because of this affair, Trevor had fallen from grace, while Gerald was now the one being lauded. Meanwhile, no one was mentioning Malcolm's affair with his mistress anymore.Despite all the attention on the Quinton family, it didn't help them. The larger they became, the more they attracted attention. The Quinton family needed to act swiftly to suppress the rumors. Jacob discovered they were trying to control the narrative, but it wasn't working. So, they had no choice but to refoc
Those who had once caused a scene at Highstone Estate now stood in a row outside the gates. Their heads were lowered, and fear was clear in their eyes.Ahead of them stood a group of burly men, their fists so massive they looked like they could crush skulls with a single blow. When Thomas dismounted, his cold gaze swept over their faces, and a thin, chilling smile escaped his lips. The formidable aura he exuded was enough to make the men's legs weak with dread. One by one, they huddled closer together, too afraid to meet Thomas's frosty stare.Trevor had ordered the main gates to be opened. When Mildred heard that the Farrell family had come to propose marriage, she suddenly felt her health improve by half. She immediately ordered hot water to be brought for a bath, calling for her servants to prepare her clothes and makeup, eager to meet with them in person.Rosalind, however, had no idea what was happening. For the past few days, her granddad had insisted that she remain in Ambe
About an hour later, Trevor sent someone to escort Rosalind.Rosalind watched as Josie picked out the most delicate, exquisite clothes for her, pairing them with carefully matched jewelry. After much thought, Rosalind decided to simply go as she was.She wore a white gown paired with a soft apricot-yellow cloak. The outfit was simple and unassuming, as though she were about to take a casual stroll in the garden, rather than attending a formal gathering or discussing matters of her future.When she reached the main hall of the outer courtyard, she saw a crowd of people, the scene quite grand.Then she saw him. His gaze met hers, deep and piercing, yet tinged with restraint.She couldn't meet his eyes for long, her heart thundering in her chest, cheeks flushed with heat.But the etiquette was ingrained in her, and she forced herself to approach each person, making her way forward. When Alice saw her, a deep sense of joy filled her heart. She immediately took Rosalind's hand and s
Josie listened from where she stood at the door and couldn't hold back her tears. They fell in a steady stream, one after another.She knew better than anyone the kind of days Rosalind had endured, how deeply tormented her heart must have been. Now, Thomas had made a grand gesture, complete with drums and trumpets, and even enlisted Natalie to act as a matchmaker. If this all worked out, it would surely slap the faces of so many people outside.But why hadn't Rosalind agreed yet? Josie almost wanted to turn around and give the answer on Rosalind's behalf.Rosalind sniffed. "If I don't agree today, you'll become a laughingstock, General Farrell."Thomas chuckled softly. "I don't care about that. Let them mock me all they want. What does it matter to me? I'm a man—let them come at me. You're a young woman who has heroically saved your students at the academy. You shouldn't have to bear the weight of all those rumors."At those words, Rosalind seemed to truly realize something.
With the situation settled positively, Carissa finally had the time to deal with the troublemakers stirring up trouble.Thomas had merely invited those troublemakers to be present when he came to propose. He hadn't resorted to any underhanded tactics, nor would Carissa. Everything was done properly and by the book.She instructed Max to bring everyone back, then had them punished with the charges of spreading rumors and causing chaos. Either they would pay fines or face corporal punishment—everyone on Jacob's list was held accountable.As for the Quinton family, they had also mobilized their people to deflect attention with the intent to harm Rosalind. So, Carissa handed over the evidence she had gathered to Meredith, who in turn passed it to Irvin, her father-in-law and the Oversight Minister. Before the court recess, he submitted an official complaint about the Quinton family.Though Malcolm claimed to know nothing about the matter, Salvador still imposed a fine of six months' sa
After seeing Derek off, Carissa exchanged a few words with Jacob before joining Violet and Isaac to roast sweet potatoes by the fire.Jacob had taken charge of the matters at the gentlemen's retreat and would keep an eye on things.The two of them were discussing Gerald's situation.Violet shook her head, clearly still in disbelief. "If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it."Isaac, who had traveled widely, was equally stunned. "I've seen all sorts of things, but nothing like this. A man of his age, with such a high position—why would he go to such a place?"From what they had observed, Gerald's visit to the gentlemen's retreat hadn't involved anything truly scandalous—he had simply called for a few courtesans, had a drink, listened to some music, and perhaps enjoyed a bit of light touch.Gerald had been Sigmund's teacher. Sigmund, who was known for his disdain for anything related to male attractions—so much so that it bordered on revulsion.As Sigmund'
Violet interjected from the side, "Actually, I think you like both men and women.""Flattering as always, but I like neither. Thank you." Isaac stretched lazily. "You two can keep roasting the sweet potatoes and chat."He stood up, his movements usually carefree. Sometimes he walked with a languid grace, other times, he took long strides. But now, feeling two eyes on his back, he straightened his posture, adopting a military stance as he walked out."By the way, Bun and Thia were supposed to come for the New Year. They sent a letter before, but we haven't seen them yet, so they might not come after all," Violet recalled, turning to Carissa."Will their mentor even let them leave for the New Year?" Carissa asked."They haven't shown up, so it's probably because their master won't let them. Maybe they'll come after the holiday," Violet added, tending to the fire. The newly added silver-charcoal pieces began to glow, and the red embers slowly spread from the side. "When you said we w
Once back at the palace, Salvador was unable to rise from his bed. Sebastian spoke briefly with him, hinting that he didn't have much time left. If there was anyone he wished to see, it should be done as soon as possible.The first person Salvador wanted to see was, of course, Victoria."That child… When he saw me, he couldn't stop asking about you. You didn't love him in vain, Mom," Salvador murmured, his voice weak.Victoria sighed deeply. "How cruel... his life must be lived hidden away in the mountains, never able to leave. Is there truly no hope for his legs?""I believe there is no hope," Salvador replied softly, his lips pale and drained of color. "But as I was leaving, he said, 'Dad, once I've learned enough medicine, I'll cure you. I'll make you better.'"Victoria's heart ached. "What a good child."Salvador's gaze drifted to the ceiling, his voice barely a whisper as he repeated, "Yes, he is a good child."After speaking with Victoria, Salvador asked Rafael to bring in
Salvador had temporarily settled at Eldermere Keep. The place was filled with every kind of medicine, yet his illness had reached a point where no remedy could ease his suffering.Still, staying there brought him peace. It was as if he had finally set down a heavy burden and could now live as an ordinary father. He spent each day with his son, sharing simple moments together.Carissa was allowed to visit and spend some time with Connor. He asked her about Ryan, specifically inquiring whether he had made any new friends."Ryan has no other friends but you. He always thinks about you," she reassured with a smile, thinking the eldest prince might be jealous.Connor was quiet for a long while, his expression tinged with guilt. Finally, with a deep sadness in his eyes, he softly said, "I have friends now, like Otto. Ryan should have his own friends too. I always think about him, but... I don't think I'll ever see him again."Carissa gently patted his head and smiled. "The future is lon
After the sun set behind the mountains, the temperature began to drop. Salvador had been carried up the mountain, but now, he was carrying Connor on his back as they made their way back into the estate.Connor had his arms tightly wrapped around Salvador's thin shoulders, and he couldn't stop the tears from falling. This was a scene he had never even dared to dream of. Not only had he never imagined being carried by his father, but even something as simple as having his father gently pat his head had always seemed like an impossible wish.But his father was so thin; there was no flesh on his back at all. How had he become so frail?Carissa and the others waited outside the gates. Not even Galen had been allowed in. Only Salvador's most loyal attendants, those who had carried the litter, were permitted to enter. The others, of course, were kept away from Connor. They all believed that Salvador had come to Eldermere Keep solely to recover from his illness.The estate itself was full
Salvador didn't fare well along the long and tiring journey, his condition worsening with each passing day. Sebastian did what he could—applying needle treatment and using medicine—but all he could offer was temporary relief. As they pressed on, the king's condition only seemed to deteriorate further.Fortunately, Salvador was a man of remarkable willpower. Despite his suffering, he gritted his teeth and carried on, unwilling to give in. He could not afford to back down—not now.Eldermere Keep lay in the southern province of Mendoria, where the climate was mild and temperate, perfect for someone needing rest and recovery. Even though it was now winter, the air was neither cold nor biting, more akin to the gentler days of autumn.The locals knew little of Eldermere Keep, though they often spoke of a physician's office that was the largest in Mendoria, as big as the one in the capital, also called Arcane Sanctum. There were other keeps, but this one was renowned for its abundance of r
Before Salvador left the capital, Rafael had already become regent and taken on the required duties. With his great military achievements, he had earned respect from both civil and military officials. At first, no one questioned his authority, and many even held him in high regard.However, with Salvador now ill and traveling incognito, rumors began to spread within the palace, warning people to be wary of the regent. The fear was that, as Cecil was still so young, Rafael might take advantage of the situation and eventually replace him.As often the case, such suspicion and rumors spread like wildfire, fueled by the mouths of many. Consequently, a number of officials lost their previous respect for Rafael. They even began to disregard his orders, paying them little heed and carrying out his commands half-heartedly.Noticing this troubling shift, Davis felt a sense of urgency. He decided to speak with Patrick, the Minister of Justice, who was also Cecil's grandfather and the father o
On the day of the first snowfall, a sudden idea struck Salvador. He hadn't attended court in some time, and now, seated on the throne, he declared his plans for a private journey to admire Starhaven's beautiful landscapes. As for the kingdom affairs, they had already been entrusted to Rafael, and that arrangement would remain unchanged.As Salvador appeared very thin and weary, many court officials tried to advise against the trip. But once he had made up his mind, there was no swaying him. He insisted that Carissa and Galen accompany him, along with Sebastian and Dorian.The very next day, they set off.It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision—Salvador had already discussed the matter with Rafael and Carissa beforehand. Sebastian had advised against it, but the king's mind was made up, so the renowned physician had no choice but to accompany him.While Salvador certainly wanted to see more of the kingdom, his true destination was Eldermere Keep, as he longed to see his son one last
Eustace waited patiently for Violet to finish her greetings before he could finally choke back his emotions."Rise, you little imp," he said softly, his voice thick with feeling.Violet slowly stood, her eyes brimming with tears. She tilted her head back, fighting to hold them in.At that moment, she regretted her decision. Why had she been so stubborn? Why had she insisted on getting married in the capital when none of her relatives were here?"Dad, once the wedding is over today, may we return with you? We can hold a celebration at home. Afterward, we can go to the guild and host another, if that's all right," Violet suggested.Eustace was pleased by the thought, but didn't want his daughter to wear herself out with so much traveling."Didn't you say you don't have many friends in Ebonflow? That's why you didn't want a grand wedding there," he reminded her."I don't, but you do, Dad, and so does our family. I can't be so selfish. I don't want you to be embarrassed because of m
Carissa had intended to spend more time talking with Violet today, but she had forgotten how many little tasks came with weddings. The hired bride attendants arrived to do Violet's hair and makeup, and before long, an hour had passed.Violet was already stunningly beautiful, but under the skilled hands of the bride attendants, she looked even more radiant—lovelier than the flowers themselves.Lunchtime came and went with only a light meal, and soon, the guests began arriving to see Violet off.As the groom's elder sister-in-law, Zoey wasn't supposed to be present but had insisted on coming. She said that since she was family to the groom, and as good as family to the bride, there was no problem. After all, it was a good day, and as long as everyone was happy, what did it matter?As Violet put on her wedding gown, a sudden wave of nervousness washed over her.Was she really getting married?Marriage meant taking on responsibilities—managing a household and having children. It woul
Isaac and Violet were finally set to marry in the golden month of October.In truth, Violet had accepted Isaac's proposal the year before, during the Starlight Harvest Festival. From that moment, she knew he was the one she wanted to give her heart to. When she agreed to marry him, she did so with all sincerity, trusting her feelings in that moment.It had taken a full year to arrange the wedding, but it wasn't because of the wedding gifts or dowry.Violet's dowry had been prepared by the Spencer family since her birth, gradually adding to it year after year. Now, they had even bought a house and a large estate in the capital. As for the wedding gifts, the Pathfinders Guild had long since prepared them on Isaac's behalf.Instead, the delay was due to differing opinions among the Spencer family, the Inferno Guild, the Pathfinders Guild, and Violet herself.Violet wanted to get married at Hell Monarch Estate, then have Isaac escort her to her estate in the capital. It seemed easier