After leaving the palace, Carissa helped Ryan onto the carriage and headed toward Highcrest Estate. It was already evening, and the men of the Klein family would be finishing their duties and returning home.Inside the carriage, Ryan used Carissa's palm as a writing surface. He scrawled, [Going to Grandpa's house?]Carissa nodded and replied, "Yes, we're going to your grandfather's house. Don't you miss them?"Ryan nodded and wrote a single word, [Yes!]Yet, his expression was tinged with worry. The child was sensitive, and the Klein family's disbelief in his return made him fear they might not want to see him.Carissa noticed his anxiety and reassured him, "Ryan, don't worry. Your grandparents, uncles, aunts, and everyone else are very eager to see you. They just don't believe you're still alive. Once they see you, they'll be very happy."Ryan leaned against Carissa, his sharp little chin raised slightly. He opened his mouth, trying to make a sound, but nothing came out. He lo
Carissa anticipated such a misunderstanding. While she had previously said she understood, in reality, she didn't fully comprehend.It was just like when she had rushed to Eldoria upon receiving Rafael's letter. Despite her efforts to temper her hopes, she couldn't help but go and see for herself.So, hearing Anthony's words now, her temper flared. She turned, threw back the curtain, and lifted Ryan up. The two stood before Anthony. With a cold voice, Carissa said, "At least take a good look. Throughout the journey, Ryan wrote messages in my hand, worried that you might reject him. I reassured him that you wouldn't."Anthony was reluctant, but he instinctively glanced at the child she was holding.In that one glance, he realized just how wrong he had been.In that brief moment, his heart almost stopped.The resemblance was undeniable. Although Ryan was now gaunt and not as chubby and adorable as before, the similarity was unmistakable.Anthony's lips trembled, and his eyes q
The other Klein family members helped Diana lay down on the ground and elevated her legs, ensuring she was breathing properly. Then they fanned her and waited until she finally came to.Upon waking, Diana continued to cry, "Oh, Lord, how could you allow this child to suffer so much? The Sinclair family was full of loyal and brave souls—why did they meet such a terrible end? Lord, you're unjust! You're too cruel!"Carissa couldn’t bear to hear such heart-wrenching lamentations. She hurried outside, her tears flowing freely. In the past, she had managed to hold back her emotions. But now, the floodgates had opened, and all the tears she had previously stifled came pouring out.Every Klein family member present had their turn to look at Ryan, and then he was taken to Ingrid's room. Fortunately, she had been given medication beforehand. Seeing Ryan as a mute and a cripple broke her heart. He was her great-grandson, whom she had cherished so dearly. How could he have been reduced to
Ingrid didn't voice her concerns aloud, but everyone understood that she was worried Helen might make things difficult for Ryan.Although the Klein family had rarely attended social gatherings over the past two years, they were still somewhat aware of outside events. They knew about Carissa's situation, though they chose not to delve deeply into it.It was common knowledge that Helen was not entirely pleased with Carissa as a daughter-in-law. Bringing Ryan along might only increase Helen's displeasure."I will always prioritize Ryan's well-being. If Helen cannot accept him, then I will return to Northwatch Estate. I assure you, Ryan will not suffer any grievances," Carissa said.However, her assurances did little to ease the concern of those present. After all, a woman marrying a second time and not receiving the favor of her mother-in-law would undoubtedly face daily challenges. Even if Rafael was fair and just, the strain between mother and wife could become burdensome over time.
The next day, the Klein family sent over Ryan's favorite dishes. They also mentioned that the ladies of the house were busy with their needlework, making clothes, shoes, and socks for him.The Klein family was clearly showing their love and care for Ryan through their actions.Ryan finally felt at ease. His maternal grandparent's family didn't despise him. In fact, they were genuinely concerned about him.Today, Sebastian personally came over again, saying he wanted to check Ryan's pulse one more time, just in case he had missed something.Given his medical expertise, Sebastian had already understood everything from the diagnosis the day before. His thoroughness could only be attributed to how much he cared about the bloodline of the Duke of Northwatch's family.After Sebastian left, Rafael arrived with Dylan in tow. Rafael told Carissa that he was there to visit Ryan and to bond with him.Ryan was thrilled to see Rafael. He even showed him the inkpots Anthony had gifted him, and
Carissa blinked. "So you're my junior in the guild?"Rafael's handsome face stiffened, and he turned away, still trying to maintain his composure. "I'm not really an apprentice of the Pathfinders Guild. My master made it clear—I'm his private student, but I'm not formally part of the guild."Carissa smiled, her eyes sparkling. "My dear junior, you're just deceiving yourself. Sage Everett is part of the Pathfinders Guild, so as his apprentice, how could you not be? When did you join, dear junior?"Rafael tried to maintain his nonchalance and smile, but he stubbornly changed the subject. "We were just talking about taking Ryan to see Theodore. When do you plan to go?"Carissa propped her chin on her hand, blinking as she looked at him. "My dear junior, your guild senior and Ryan will go tomorrow."For some reason, now that she knew he was from the same guild, Carissa felt completely at ease, letting herself be much more playful around him.Rafael was silent momentarily and rolled h
Rafael was the commander of the Hell Monarch Army. Even when there was no war and he remained in the capital, the Hell Monarch Army was stationed not far away. Also, military affairs were always demanding, often requiring him to lead training exercises. How could he possibly take on the role of Minister of Justice at the same time?Moreover, the Ministry of Justice was responsible for overseeing criminal cases, conducting reviews of death sentences, and handling important legal matters—most of which were administrative work. He was a military general, but he was appointed as Minister of Justice? Further, why was he also given command of the Mystic Army?With both a civilian and a military position on his shoulders, not to mention his role as the commander of the Hell Monarch Army, how could he manage it all?He said indifferently, "I've already handed over the military seal and authority. For now, Oliver Prince will command the Hell Monarch Army."Oliver Prince?Carissa knew o
There were many things Rafael couldn't say, so he took his leave.Carissa pondered for a long time. Some things seemed to make sense now, but there were still parts she couldn't quite grasp.Lily noticed her distress and hesitated, wanting to approach her. However, Frederick stopped her. He shook his head at Lily and said, "Prepare some food for Lord Ryan. He's been practicing his writing for a long time, and must be tired."Lily glanced at Frederick, and sighed softly. "Alright."She turned and went to the kitchen, while Frederick, limping slightly, followed her. Once in the kitchen, he lowered his voice, "I know you want to talk to Lady Sinclair, but don't say anything now. Wait until after the wedding."Lily nodded. "I understand. I just saw she was troubled and acted on impulse. I know better than to act rashly."She sighed again. "I only learned today that Prince Rafael gave up his military power. When I think about everything that's happened, it's clear he did it for our