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
On New Year's Eve, Ryan wore a bright red woolen cloak, its edges lined with soft white fur, a thick hood atop his head. His lively, cheerful demeanor matched his outfit as he eagerly waited for the Klein family's carriage to arrive.Jacob had already prepared many gifts, many of which Ryan had personally chosen.The night before, Frederick had come over from Northwatch Estate to deliver the account books. Ryan had stayed up all night, carefully reviewing them. Jacob told him there was no rush to go through them, and then went to ask Carissa for some leniency. Carissa told him it would be good for Ryan to learn how to manage the accounts sooner rather than later—after all, he would need to take charge of everything in Northwatch Estate eventually.While Ryan examined the books, his study partner Evan stayed by his side. However, Evan was heading home to celebrate the New Year and wouldn't be accompanying him to Highcrest Estate.Carissa's greatest joy was that Ryan, though meticu
Before the palace banquet, Carissa sat with Victoria, spent time with Grace, sat with Penelope, and then took a walk in the Royal Garden with several grand princesses, including Kiera and Meredith.Today, Meredith wore a bright red embroidered gown with a white dove pattern. With her powdered face and rouge, she looked even more noble. Holding a fan to cover her face, she smiled and said, "I heard that after the formal complaint about the Quinton family was submitted, Lord Gerald quickly gathered the family and severely punished the fourth branch, saying that all this trouble was caused by them."As Victoria's daughter, Meredith held a respected position among the royal family. The other princesses always followed her lead. When Meredith spoke of the Quinton family, everyone else agreed. Even Henrietta laughed along.Henrietta was Josephine's daughter and a granddaughter of the Quinton family. However, she had long since distanced herself from the family. Her husband Vance advised t
Little did Carissa know, Jeanette would keep talking to her throughout the performance. Sometimes, she even giggled and playfully nudged Carissa, as if they were very close and familiar with each other.Their interaction caught the attention of the other concubines nearby. A few of them even leaned in, casting curious glances several times.Though people would call it interacting, in reality, Carissa only occasionally agreed or nodded, giving a smile to be polite.However, others didn't see it that way. After the performance, both Meredith and Kiera pulled Carissa aside with puzzled expressions."You and Jeanette know each other?"Carissa shook her head. "We've never met before today.""Then why does it seem like you two are so familiar with each other?" Kiera's confusion deepened.Meredith noticed something was off and frowned. "Stay away from her in the future. Her intentions aren't sincere."Carissa had already gathered that much. But at the time, everyone was watching the p
Gerald was slightly startled. He turned to look at Carissa, his expression showing a hint of displeasure. "Do you think I'm wrong, Your Grace? Or do you believe you are capable of teaching and spreading knowledge yourself?"Helen reached out, gently tugging on Carissa's sleeve, a silent plea for her to avoid any further argument with Gerald.Helen loved Sigmund, so she had great respect for Gerald, who was once his tutor. In fact, she had once considered having Rafael marry one of the Quinton family's daughters. Ultimately, Kiera had married Logan, which fulfilled Helen's wish.Moreover, Helen felt that even though Gerald spoke to Carissa in a reprimanding tone, it was still advice from an elder to a youngster. Carissa should accept it humbly.To be honest, she felt a bit uncomfortable, especially with Gerald's somewhat mocking tone. Wasn't he implying that Carissa lacked education? Even so, Helen chose to overlook it. After all, Gerald was a royal tutor, and age demanded respect
Carissa returned home to find Jacob waiting for her with a letter from Rafael, a broad smile on his face. "Prince Rafael's letter arrived after you've only just stepped out," he said, handing it to her.Carissa's eyes lit up as she took the letter. She didn't open it immediately but instead asked, "Why aren't you spending the New Year with your family, Jacob?""I'm about to head back to celebrate with them," Jacob replied with a mischievous glint in his eyes, "but I wanted to make sure the letter was handed to you personally. I was also eager to see the look on your face when you read it. Plus, I'm curious what else His Highness might have said, beyond just personal matters."Carissa couldn't hide her delight. "This is his first letter to me. I'll read it right away."She knew there must be details about the investigation in the letter, so it would need to be reviewed by Jacob. As she opened the envelope, she found three sheets of paper: two addressed to her, and one detailing th
Carissa couldn't reply to Rafael's letter, as they didn't have a permanent place where they were staying. All she could do was tuck her longing deep in her heart, waiting until he returned to tell him everything in person.The New Year was a lively celebration, filled with visits and gatherings. Lulu practically wanted Carissa to try on every new outfit she had, knowing she would be back in her official attire once she returned to the Capital Guard headquarters.Every morning, Lulu would sit Carissa down in front of the vanity and try out different styles, making her look stunning each time. Even the prime minister's wife Natalie remarked how a woman didn't need to have pale skin to look beautiful.Carissa's skin wasn't pale. All the time she spent outdoors had taken away the delicate fairness of a sheltered woman. Instead, her sun-kissed tone carried a warm, healthy glow that made her stand out in her own unique way.On the eighth day of the new year, Kylie was released from her h
"But how long can they afford the tuition? And the daughters of ordinary families have to help out at home to make a living. Studying doesn't exactly bring in money," Violet asked.Carissa thought for a moment. "That money's not insignificant. It should last a year or two. We can't waive the fees entirely, but we could lower them. Maybe offer half-day classes, so the girls can still help their families with work in the afternoon."She paused, considering the possibilities. "And don't forget about the merchants. They won't be stingy with their money. The constraints of rules and propriety are less strict for them."Violet nodded. "That's true. Unless they're from a noble family or are royal merchants, ordinary merchants often let their women handle business affairs.""Even ordinary families might send their daughters. Partly because of Mr. Spencer's reputation, but also because many can't afford to send their sons to school. If their daughters can attend an academy with low tuitio
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