Four hours passed—no more, no less. Outside, night had long fallen. The cold was even harsher.The accountant with the long beard came in to make a report. "Grand Princess Eleanor, the accounts have been thoroughly reviewed. There are no discrepancies with the numbers compared to the ones Lady Carissa has shown us.""That's outrageous!" Eleanor smashed another cup, which crashed loudly. The sound startled Helen awake. she looked at Eleanor with sleep-laden eyes, bewildered by the fury radiating from the latter.Eleanor's voice was filled with rage as she declared, "How dare that vile servant falsify accounts and embezzle Helen and Jessica's money? I will make sure he is severely punished!"Carissa released Helen and said, "It's enough that we've settled the accounts. Since Eric is the one at fault, there's no need for you to get involved, Aunt Eleanor. I'll have him sent to the Supreme Court to recover all the embezzled funds.""Carissa!" Eleanor's tone softened considerably a
Under the bright lights, Carissa carefully counted the banknotes. It was indeed the full amount of The Gilded Tower's profits over the years, with not a single cent missing. She received the banknotes, along with some loose change.Watching Carissa's meticulous counting, Jessica felt a gnawing rage. But at least the matter was settled for now, and she let out a small sigh of relief.Unexpectedly, Carissa said, "Tomorrow, we'll proceed with selling the shop. I'll have someone spread the word that Aunt Eleanor and Jessica managed the shop. With your reputations attached, many interested buyers are likely to come forward. We'll set a minimum price of 250,000 silver coins. How does that sound?"Jessica's face turned ashen. "What? You want to say that my mother and I are managing the shop? Absolutely not!"The Gilded Tower had a bad reputation, notorious for its poor quality and frequent cost-cutting. Spreading such news would tarnish both Jessica and Eleanor's reputations. Jessica wa
Carissa leaned back in her chair, her long legs and tall frame giving her an imposing presence. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips, and her eyes gleamed with satisfaction. She was pleased Helen hadn’t fallen for Eleanor's trap, even though her response had seemed rather forced.When Eleanor's attempt to provoke failed, she simply smiled. "Yes, those with capability should be in charge. But I seem to recall you once complained about this being Carissa's second marriage and how she was unworthy of Rafael. And now, in just a few days, she's got you wrapped around her finger. Quite the skillful move. Helen, I'm worried that if you stay in this estate, she'll have you dancing to her tune in no time."Carissa's smile faded, and she said coldly, "That's enough. We'll proceed as I've said. I'm done here. Goodbye.""Hold it!" Eleanor's voice was sharp and commanding. "Carissa, don't think you can just walk away!"At her shout, Helen flinched instinctively.However, Carissa
Carissa continued to count the money. When the banknotes fell short, gold bars were brought out to make up the difference. It seemed Eleanor had substantial reserves—producing over two hundred thousand silver coins was not difficult for her.Carissa had underestimated Eleanor. Over the years, Eleanor had supported the household soldiers, maintained hundreds of servants, frequently hosted guests, and adorned herself in luxurious clothing and fine jewelry. Every piece of her attire was of the highest quality.Yet, seeing Eleanor's pained expression as she handed over the money, Carissa knew this sum was hitting Eleanor where it hurt. This time, they had completely ripped off the mask of civility between them.At least, Carissa had recovered what was rightfully theirs and what had been deceitfully taken. There was no loss on her part. As for the rift, it was nothing new. There was no need to maintain the facade of hypocritical harmony.With that, Carissa made her way out.Elean
Rafael and Dylan led the way on horseback, while the carriage followed slowly behind.Helen grasped Carissa's hand, her excitement almost impossible to contain. "I truly didn't expect you to successfully get all the money back. Others may not be aware, but I know Grand Princess Eleanor very well. She may appear amiable to everyone, but in reality, she's quite domineering."Carissa gently pulled her hand away. "Now that you know what kind of person she is, it's best to keep interactions with her to a minimum in the future."Helen nodded, but her expression grew worried. "I'm just concerned that if we fall out with her, she might speak ill of us in front of other ladies and tarnish our reputation.""What's there to worry about?" Carissa said dismissively."Of course, you're not concerned. Your reputation is already in tatters, but I've just left the palace and can't afford to gain a bad name."Carissa gave her mother-in-law a sidelong glance. Helen was really harsh with words, espe
With so many thoughts swirling through her head, coupled with the chill she had endured, Helen's mind became muddled and her body ached slightly.When they returned to Hell Monarch Estate, Carissa helped her out of the carriage and immediately instructed the servants, "Prepare a pot of chicken soup. Everyone has been out in the cold for a while. They need something to ward off the lingering chill."Helen felt even more ashamed after hearing that.Carissa was truly considerate, remembering that her mother-in-law had suffered at Harmony Palace. Who could match such devotion and attentiveness?Little did she know, Carissa's concern was not for her but for Rafael, who had been outside in the cold and wind.The kitchen chefs soon brought up the chicken soup, and each person was served a bowl. Carissa watched Rafael drink two bowls before she was satisfied.Turning around, she noticed her mother-in-law sipping her soup slowly and said, "Mother, drink a full bowl first, and have some ho
Embarrassed or not, the two of them did end up bathing together in the end. After soaking in the bath, they continued their passionate night under the white canopy of their bed.Fortunately, both were trained in martial arts. So, even with only getting an hour or two of sleep, they were still able to go about their day without feeling tired.As they got up the next morning, two unfamiliar attendants entered to serve Rafael. Luke had arranged this. These two elderly women, Sydney and Qiana, had originally worked in the embroidery room. But now that Rafael had no one to serve him, it wouldn't be appropriate to have a young servant help him with dressing and personal needs.As for the maids serving Carissa, Joy and Winter had gone to attend to Ryan. Meanwhile, Lulu, Snow, and Pearl remained by Carissa's side to serve her personally.Lily was in charge of managing the entire Orchid Hall, so naturally, it wouldn't be appropriate to ask her to take on these duties. And if younger servant
Jacob chuckled and said, "With Lady Carissa here, you won't be short-changed. Just make sure to do the job well. Once the household army is established, you'll be in charge of their management and training. Given the hard work involved, there will definitely be an additional reward."Not interested in vague promises, Travis asked directly, "So, how much are we talking about?"Jacob held up one finger. "This much."At that moment, Travis wished he had an actual rod in his hand to smack Jacob over the head. Couldn't Jacob just say the amount instead of making him guess?"Just tell us whether you'll do it or not," Rafael said."I'll do it!" Travis immediately agreed, planning to ask Carissa later to find out exactly how much the pay was.Either way, he had already decided to take the job. He would be in for a beating if he didn't bring some money back to the guild."Alright, you won't need to worry about the recruitment process. Just focus on being the drill instructor and teaching
The rain was coming down in torrents.After visiting a few shops, they came upon The Golden Tower, the city's most renowned jeweler. Seeing it still open, Chaya expressed a desire to buy some jewelry. Hayden waved a hand dismissively. "Buy what you like."Inside The Golden Tower, Nathaniel spotted Hayden and quickly ushered them to a private room on the third floor. The Shadow Guard, of course, followed close behind.Hayden had been here with Chaya on several occasions. As a regular customer, he was treated well. Aside from Nathaniel, William and two attendants stood by to serve them.Delicate cakes were brought out, and Hayden invited the Shadow Guard to join them for a drink while Chaya selected her pieces.The Shadow Guard naturally didn't dare to sit down. He was there to keep an eye on Hayden, so he stood beside him. He watched Hayden chat warmly with Nathaniel, ensuring no suspicious dealings took place.Occasionally, he glanced at Chaya. Her large frame blocked the jewel
Nicholas continued speaking, as if showing off how brilliant his schemes were."I had contact with General Liam a long time ago. I knew he wouldn't be easy to handle, so I sent someone into Westhaven to infiltrate their spy network. This way, I could learn of any news from the capital. I also thought this could give me a foothold inside Westhaven. Sure enough, it brought me to General Leroy."General Leroy was almost overshadowed by his older brother, but I knew of his ambition and that he was willing to sacrifice anything. When Westhaven's previous crown prince, Arthur, went to the battlefield, it was General Leroy who spread the rumors about the generals taking bribes and killing civilians to take credit for their achievements. That's why Prince Arthur went undercover to investigate.""He went to Fawnrun City. What good did that do you?" Hayden asked."Naturally, I stepped in to persuade him and formed an alliance with him," Nicholas said with a hint of regret. "Unfortunately, Au
Nicholas walked into Hayden's courtyard, holding an umbrella. He entered the house and dismissed everyone, not even allowing Chaya to stay.Hayden had just finished his meal, and the table still had leftover food that the servants were about to clean up.Nicholas sat down, picked up Hayden's cutlery, and started eating the leftovers. He ate gracefully as usual, which disgusted and angered Hayden.He had been raised with such refinement, every move reflecting the casual demeanor expected of a prince. Unfortunately, he had a ruthless ambition and a cruel nature.Nicholas finished all the leftover food, then set down the cutlery and wiped his mouth with a handkerchief. "We shouldn't waste food. I happen to be hungry as well. Surely you won't mind, Dad?"Hayden's voice was cold. "It's fine. It was going to be fed to the dogs anyway. You may as well eat it.""You think I'm a dog, Dad? Then, what are you?" Nicholas smiled, his expression brightening. "I came to share some good news
The Astrology Department's predictions were true. This year, there was indeed more rainfall than usual.On the 18th of July, a torrential downpour began over the capital.Outside the city, Nicholas' scouts spotted a group of people braving the rain, heading toward the capital.The scouts were posing as peasants from the surrounding villages on the outskirts, and their entry into the city wouldn't raise suspicion. When they recognized the leader of the group as Clifford, one of the scouts immediately carried a basket of fruit into the city.Such common folk were often overlooked. Every day, peasants entered the city, either to sell their goods at the market or to deliver produce to the homes of the nobility.The scout made his way to Willowbrook Estate's back door. Once it opened, he quickly slipped inside.In the study, Nicholas sat stiffly, listening intently to the report."Are you certain you saw Mr. Murphy?" Nicholas asked in a calm voice, betraying no hint of excitement. No
It wasn't until that moment that Yuvan fully realized the extent of his defeat. His lips trembled, and his legs gave way as he collapsed to the ground. Panic and fear surged within him. He thought of the tragic fates of past traitors who tried to rebel, and was struck with a deep, bone-chilling coldness.He had considered the consequences of failure before, but he always thought that if he failed, he would just face death bravely. At worst, he would end his own life to avoid further suffering.But now, locked in a cold, iron-barred cell with no weapons in hand, he realized how grim things had become. The walls were strong, but he might not die right away even if he charged headfirst into them.There were guards outside the cell. If he didn't die, he might suffer even more than this.However, it wasn't the fear of torture that pierced Yuvan the most—it was his unwillingness to accept this fate.How had it come to this? Even in defeat, he should've had a group of loyal men to stan
In a battle fought in the open, there was always the possibility of retreat. As long as they retreated to a more advantageous position, the situation could easily be turned around.So, Thomas needed to find a way to cut off the enemy's escape route and trap them here, until they were either defeated or surrendered.-Inside Valken, Wayne had been captured and was now imprisoned alongside Yuvan and the others.Seeing this, Harvey exclaimed in surprise, "Mr. Wayne, how did you get caught? Did Mr. Murphy lose?"Wayne's clothes were torn, his body covered in wounds, and blood was dried on the corner of his mouth. He looked utterly disheveled.At this point, Yuvan still hadn't realized that he had been betrayed. He had spent the entire night worrying about why no one had come to rescue him. He began to suspect that perhaps they could no longer rely on Clifford's forces. Yet, in his mind, he still hoped that Saul would come, even if Clifford had failed.Seeing Wayne captured, however,
Samson was just as confused. "I don't know, either. It was Mr. Murphy himself who told me," he said.Wayne's heart tightened with fear. Clifford was known for his meticulous planning. If he said he would arrive by nightfall, he would never be late."Could there have been an ambush along the way? That can't be," Wayne muttered, his mind racing. "The scouts reported that General Murray's forces were scattered, busy suppressing bandits, and they've already moved into Nanyara. They wouldn't be able to return in time.""If there had been an ambush, Mr. Murphy would've sent word. They have scouts," Samson said, his face pale. "Sir, what do we do now? We can't win against the Capital Army."Wayne took a few deep breaths, trying to calm himself. "Our only option is to survive. We need to find a way to escape and meet up with Mr. Murphy.""But if we leave, Valken will fall," Samson said urgently. "What about all our families? How do we get them out? The gates are under guard. We can only
As the two sides clashed in battle, Everett had already arrived in Nerovia with a group of martial artists.The timing had been carefully calculated. At this moment, Nerovia was without capable leadership. While the officials were loyal to Nicholas, nearly all of the fighting men had been sent out to battle, leaving only a thousand men and a few city guards behind.With Hayden's emblem in hand, Everett made his way directly to the government office. He first dismissed the governor and took control of the office.At the same time, Eustace led several of his bodyguards and merchant convoys to Nerovia. The battle for Nerovia was one of the easiest to win. With Hayden's emblem in hand, Nicholas' residence, Riverton Estate, was now sealed off.Now, Riverton Estate no longer had any of Hayden's people. All the former officials had been driven out to the countryside.Once Everett had taken control of the government office, he led his men straight to Riverton Estate. They captured every a
Yuvan and Harvey were escorted out of the city gates, with Wayne personally seeing them off.Harvey had expected that once they handed over Yuvan, Wayne would order his release. But when the soldiers from the Capital Army moved forward to seize them, Wayne didn't utter a word.A wave of panic surged within Harvey. He struggled against his restraints and glanced at Wayne, his eyes screaming for an explanation.Wayne gave him a small, reassuring nod, signaling for him to stay calm. Yet, something felt wrong. After all, Wayne had promised that only Yuvan would be handed over. So, why was Harvey being turned over as well?Could it be... Could it be that they are going to abandon him?!A sense of dread tightened in Harvey's chest. "I'm innocent!" he pleaded desperately. "I captured Yuvan. Release me!"Thomas cast a cold, dismissive glance at him. "What a fool!""Wayne!" Harvey's heart plunged like it had fallen into an icy abyss. His expression shifted from anger to helplessness.