It was obvious when Eleanor set out to entrap someone, she showed no mercy. She immediately commanded someone to fetch Sebastian back.Sebastian had already explained this issue, and the officials' wives had also been present then. However, he was more than willing to clarify once again.Standing behind the partition screen, his voice was old and stern. "Madam Warren suffers from a heart ailment and hemoptysis. This illness has persisted for many years, and remains incurable. It can only be managed with Snowdrop Pills. "Initially, I treated her in consideration of Lady Sinclair. Since entering the Warren family, Lady Sinclair has tended to Madam Warren's illness day and night for a year. The monthly cost of the Snowdrop Pills is considerable, and there’s no need to explain where the money comes from. "However, Madam Warren was uncooperative. She constantly complained to me about the cost of the pills without understanding the precious herbs used to make them. If not for Lady Si
This statement left everyone in shock. Even the fact that Rebecca was rebuked by Sebastian was quickly forgotten.Everyone turned to look at Helen. What did she mean? Did the Hell Monarch want to marry Carissa? A royal prince wanted to marry a woman who had been divorced?It wasn't just the noble ladies who were surprised—even Eleanor was taken aback. She glanced at Helen, then at Carissa, her brows furrowing.Carissa also looked at Helen with a calm expression. This matter hadn't been settled yet, and no formal proposal had been made. Why did Helen announce it?Besides, didn't Helen despise her? No one had asked, and no rumors had spread. Yet here Helen was, announcing it herself.Had Helen accepted her? But the acceptance was so sudden, leaving people at a loss.Moreover, even if it was to be announced, this wasn't the right moment. Carissa had been criticized for so long, and it was rare for Sebastian to explain in front of the noblewomen why he didn't treat Rebecca. Now,
Carissa laughed softly, her demeanor unruffled. "I don't find myself embarrassed at all, but don't you feel any shame, Lady Jessica? "You're the daughter of a princess, and you were given a royal education. Yet, you speak such harsh words. You couldn't even recognize my senior's painting, and tore it apart in your ignorance. Such rashness is what will truly invite ridicule. "As for telling me to leave, are you issuing an eviction order? How amusing. Grand Princess Eleanor invited me here with a formal invitation, and I brought a birthday gift. Now, you want to chase me away? Is this how your family treats its guests? Or was there another intention behind that invitation—to humiliate me in front of these ladies? "Did you think that after my separation from Barrett, I would be too ashamed to show my face, and that I would quietly endure your insults?"She paused, her gaze sweeping across the room. "If you expected me to be a laughingstock by inviting me here, you'll be disappo
As Carissa walked away, Rafael followed suit.News of their departure quickly spread from the inner courtyard to the main court. The royal relatives and various civil and military officials present all learned that Rafael was about to marry Carissa.Men and women thought differently.Men valued heritage and purity, but they also placed great importance on benefits.Who was Carissa? Beyond being the daughter of the Duke of Northwatch and backed by her impressive background, she was also an apprentice of the Pathfinders Guild, with Kyle as her senior.The Pathfinders Guild wasn’t just a martial arts faction. Apart from Kyle, it was home to many extraordinary individuals. Currently, the leader of the Pathfinders Guild was Adrian Russell. He was the great-grandson of Blake Russell, who was the former Supreme Cavalry Commander, also known by his other titles of the Exotic Sovereign and the Annara Monarch.Adrian founded the Pathfinders Guild, and his influence extended over all the gu
Once Carissa finished writing down their orders, she showed them to Rafael. He reviewed it and said happily, "These are all to my liking. Let's go with this."Then, he turned to Dylan. "Dylan, take this and place the orders."Dylan nodded and took the paper, then went out to place the order. He returned shortly afterward."What happened in the inner courtyard? Did they doubt the birthday gift you brought and think it was a fake? Did they also try to bully you?" Rafael had a general idea, but wanted to hear it from her directly.Carissa took a sip of water to soothe her dry throat, and said, "They couldn't bully me, but there were indeed some who targeted me and didn't take me seriously."Lulu chimed in, "My lady, the last few things you said really frightened me. How could you dare to speak so boldly? What if Grand Princess Eleanor decides to retaliate?"Carissa replied, "Whether I say it or not, she was going to make things difficult for me anyway. I might as well get it off m
Just then, the waiter brought out the food to be served, and Carissa fell silent. She watched as each dish was laid out before them. Among them was her favorite—spicy stuffed peppers. Their vibrant red and green hues looked utterly appetizing.There was a variety of dishes, both spicy and mild options, and the fragrant aroma soon filled the room.Carissa was ravenous. She picked up her utensils, and addressed Rafael's earlier question. "When we left, Frederick mentioned that over the years, Lord Henry had taken many concubines. Most of them died after giving birth. I thought, if a concubine dies, it could be due to an accident or childbirth complications, but for so many to die—it's hard not to be suspicious."As she spoke, she picked up a stuffed pepper and placed it on her plate. She also served some to Rafael. "Try some of this. It's the star of all the dishes."Then, she spooned a small amount of red chili and green chili onto his plate."Okay." Rafael looked at the bright
Carissa also noticed that Rafael started coughing as soon as he ate, and his cheeks turned red from the coughing. Clearly, he wasn't used to spicy food. So why did he choose this restaurant?She moved the list of non-spicy dishes to his side, and said, "Even though you like spicy food, I think your throat is sore today. You should avoid spicy dishes for now and eat something lighter.""My throat does feel off," Rafael said, clearing his throat as he felt the lingering burn from the spices. It was quite uncomfortable."I'll have someone bring you a glass of milk," Carissa said, standing up to open the door to the private room. She called for a waiter to bring a cup of milk."Milk can help neutralize the spiciness," she said with a smile, as if comforting a child. "Drink up."Rafael took the glass of milk. It had a slight gamey taste, but it was cool and refreshing, making it bearable. More importantly, it was a gesture of her thoughtfulness.He appreciated her unspoken underst
Rafael continued to put food on her plate, but he avoided answering her question.Carissa suppressed her curiosity. After all, it wasn't a particularly important matter.He smiled, and deflected by saying, "After Grand Princess Eleanor's birthday banquet today, I'm sure there will be many new topics among the noble families in the capital."Carissa gave him a playful glare. "Yes, many noble ladies will have their hearts broken. When Lady Helen announced our engagement, many looked at me with disdain.""There will be many who envy and resent me," Rafael said meaningfully. At least Barrett would regret it. Even Salvador had been moved as well."Not really. Who would want a woman who has been divorced?" Carissa said. Rafael tapped her forehead lightly with the end of his spoon. "You're about to become the Hell Monarch's princess consort. Are you still belittling yourself?""Such is the way of the world." She tapped him back playfully, then quickly moved away, smiling. "I'm not b
Thomas had already received word from his scouts. Several mysterious groups had gathered outside Nerovia and were now heading toward Valken.Long before this, he had received a report from Jacob. Jacob had warned him that Yuvan might feign surrender to lure them into the city for a trap, and then spring an ambush from within. Thomas knew well that Yuvan was nothing more than a pawn in Nicholas' game.With years of experience in intelligence and espionage, Thomas could piece together the situation with just a few key bits of information and devise a strategy accordingly.Homer and Felix had initially remained in the capital, but yesterday they had suddenly moved to join him outside Valken. Thomas had been surprised at first—after all, the capital should have been the most dangerous place. Why would the two of them be sent here?Felix explained that Carissa's mentor, Adrian, the leader of the Pathfinders Guild, had come to the capital, bringing with him many martial artists to aid
That evening, Samson returned with a scout and hastily reported, "Your Highness, Mr. Harper has successfully rallied our scattered troops and secured 500 warhorses from the Spencer family. He is making his way back now. If the pace holds, he will arrive in three days."Yuvan sprang to his feet, his heart pounding with excitement. "Is that true?""Absolutely, Your Highness. The scout is waiting outside. You may call him in to confirm.""Bring him in!" Yuvan sat back down, his pulse racing. At last, he had gathered all the forces—but the news of the Spencer family providing 500 warhorses caught him off guard. Since the fallout over Violet's incident, he had severed ties with the Spencer family. The scout entered, kneeling before Yuvan. "Your Highness, Mr. Harper sends word that the private army has assembled. Also, Mr. Murphy, one of Prince Nicholas' advisors, is leading 5,000 men and 500 warhorses in support. Prince Nicholas has one request—he wants the rescue of Prince Hayden."
Hayden clenched his fists, his anger and helplessness tightening his chest as he followed behind.The physician worked quickly, examining Sonny's injuries. Both of his legs were broken, three of his teeth were knocked out, and his face was riddled with fractures. Despite the pain that twisted his expression, he still grinned at Hayden, forcing a smile through gritted teeth.He tried to assure Hayden with a look that said he would be fine.Hayden turned away, his heart aching. The man who had stood by his side for so many years now lay in such a state. Fury surged within him, but there was nothing he could do.Back in Nerovia, he had ordered an extra emblem to be made, just in case the day ever came when Nicholas stole the original to mobilize Hayden's forces. If Hayden noticed in time, someone could use the duplicate emblem to stop Nicholas.Hayden hadn't expected it to serve its purpose this way, though.The chaos of the riverworks project was swiftly quelled. Cameron was arrest
As dawn broke, Adrian led them to the Glimmering Tower. It was then that Carissa realized they weren't the only ones who had arrived—many guild leaders and elders were present as well. Even Violet and Bun's mentor had come.When Violet spotted her mentor Conrad, she gasped in surprise and rushed toward him. "Sage Conrad, what brings you here? You didn't even send word beforehand!"Conrad smiled warmly as he looked at his beloved apprentice, indulgence in his voice. "I heard you were guarding the capital. Naturally, I had to come and lend you a hand.""Sage Conrad, you're too kind. I'll get another villa for you once we're done here," Violet said, linking her arm with his, grinning widely.Conrad scowled lightly, feigning annoyance. "Why would I need more villas from you? No more, I tell you. However, I did hear about a hot spring at Solitude Peak. I thought of buying it, so your fellow apprentices can soak and strengthen their bodies."Violet nodded enthusiastically. "I'll buy i
The black-clad assailants' Lightfoot Skills were extraordinary, and they scattered in all directions. Adrian could have pursued one of them, but catching all of them was impossible.However, he chose not to pursue anyone at all. Emerging from the shadows, his hand darted out and grabbed Carissa by the ear, twisting it until she yelped in pain. "So bold of you, wasn't it? To engage without proper defenses? Do you think you're invincible? Haven't you heard the saying that there's always someone stronger out there?"Carissa shrieked and flailed in protest as the lamps were lit by Jacob, illuminating the courtyard and revealing the bloodstains on everyone's bodies.Only then did Adrian notice the wounds on Carissa. Yet instead of softening, his grip on her ear tightened, and he hissed, "You couldn't guess what Nicholas was planning? And you didn't think to write for reinforcements from Meadow Ridge? Are you so arrogant now that you've forgotten basic caution? Just wait until your mart
Hayden gestured for her to lower the sword. "Not tonight. Neither side is ready."Chaya frowned, confused. "Why? Didn't you say Mr. Russell was formidable? If he's taking action, surely he can capture Prince Nicholas?""He won't capture him," Hayden replied, rubbing his temples. "General Farrell has Valken surrounded, but he hasn't launched an attack because he knows Mr. Murphy has already undermined Prince Yuvan's authority. "A portion of Valken's population has joined the so-called rebel forces. If the capital falls now, the officials in Valken and Nerovia will find an excuse, under the court's banner, to slaughter the townsfolk. That would spark even larger uprisings. That's why Lady Carissa can't act prematurely."Chaya hastily tossed the sword aside. "And why isn't it the right time for Prince Nicholas, then?""It's simple," Hayden said. "He needs Mr. Murphy to first defeat General Farrell in a decisive victory. Once General Farrell is dealt with, he'll move on to General Mu
By the early hours of the morning, the rain had lessened to a gentle drizzle, leaving the air cooler and the night more serene. The quiet respite lulled many into a deeper, more peaceful sleep.Seven or eight shadowy figures darted through the curfewed city, their movements light and swift. They barely left a trace as they touched down on rooftops, their steps silent.They arrived at the Capital Guard headquarters. The outer guards had already retreated for the night, leaving only Carissa and her companions waiting in the main hall, tense and alert.With a quick exchange of glances, the group gripped their weapons. The assassins had arrived!The dim light of the hall flickered, and as the black-clad figures descended, a gust of wind extinguished the lamps. Darkness enveloped the room, plunging it into an impenetrable black where even an outstretched hand became invisible.Amid the darkness, the faint sound of breathing and the subtle rhythm of movements became the only clues to
The damp, oppressive heat of summer seemed to weigh heavily on the spirit, stoking an inexplicable irritation in the air.Hayden, clearly affected by the weather, barely touched his dinner. After a few cursory bites, he set his cutlery down and announced that he was heading back to the study to practice his calligraphy to clear his mind. He gestured for Chaya to follow, and the two left the room.Before departing, Chaya made sure to take two heaping plates of snacks with her. After all, she wasn't about to let herself go hungry.Nicholas, still in his Gordon disguise, watched Hayden leave but made no move to stop him. It didn't matter where Hayden went—his every step was being monitored. Besides, Nicholas had far more pressing matters to attend to tonight.Back in his room, Nicholas locked the door behind him and methodically prepared for the night's mission. He changed into his stealth attire, then sat before a mirror. Opening a small wooden box on the table, he revealed an array
By evening, tensions finally erupted.The Waterworks Department had stationed soldiers to oversee the workers, ensuring work continued on schedule. Yesterday's heavy rain had halted all progress, but with today's rare overcast skies and no rain, Cameron ordered the workers to make up for lost time. In fact, he demanded they finish the project three days ahead of schedule.The workers were already agitated, and they refused. Tempers flared, and heated arguments broke out between them and the Waterworks Department officials. In a fit of rage, Cameron picked up a club and struck one of the workers. That single blow ignited an uncontrollable fury among the workers. Over a hundred men turned on the officials, attacking them in a chaotic melee.Fortunately, Carissa had already stationed people nearby to keep an eye on the situation. Word was immediately sent to Max.Max was wary, suspecting this might be a calculated ploy by Nicholas. However, based on their investigation, not all th