Her Graceful War Song

Carissa paid a visit to Jeanette.

Though the concubine did not explicitly say that Sylvia was responsible for the loss of her child, she did remark, "Those who commit wicked deeds will always face retribution. No one can escape it."

The words seemed not only directed at Sylvia, but also at Kylie.

As Carissa prepared to leave after questioning her, Jeanette suddenly spoke up, asking, "Your Grace, was it truly impossible to save Prince Connor?"

Carissa assumed Jeanette's words were born of sympathy for Connor. But when she glanced at the concubine, she saw no trace of sorrow in her eyes, only a subtle glint of something resembling satisfaction.noveldrama

It was an emotion she clearly tried to conceal but could not, as though Jeanette had achieved a long-sought revenge. Carissa chose not to respond, instead turning on her heel to leave.

Kylie had caused Jeanette's loss, so it was no surprise that she wouldn't wish for Connor's recovery.

Carissa couldn't fault Jeanette for her feelings. How could she, when she had not endured the same pain? It was not her place to admonish.

Though Carissa had planned to visit Laurel Palace, she changed her mind and decided to stop by Iridescent Palace first.

She had originally thought to delay this visit, for she had heard that Caden had been deeply distressed. The shock and grief had caused him to lose his senses, leaving him in a troubled state.

So, when she went, her intention was not to speak with Caden, but rather with Grace.

The evidence clearly absolved Grace of any involvement in these matters. Neither Jeanette's loss nor Connor's plight could be directly or indirectly linked to her. However, there was one thing that continued to trouble Carissa-the rumors that had circulated in the harem.

The first rumor suggested Sylvia had been responsible for the loss of Jeanette's child, while the second implicated Kylie in the same act.

Both rumors had stirred a great deal of gossip within the harem, and it was the latter that had sparked the queen's wild outburst at Laurel Palace. It was then that everyone in the harem had learned of the bitter rift between Kylie and Sylvia.

At present, the prevailing speculation was that Kylie's outburst had provoked Sylvia's vengeful wrath, ultimately resulting in Connor's injury.

The harem was under strict governance; rumors without foundation were swiftly suppressed. Yet strangely, both these rumors had been allowed to spread unchecked, which suggested that someone was deliberately allowing them to spread.

If Sylvia were innocent, she might have spread rumors to shift the blame onto Kylie. But as it stood, she was far from innocent. She

understood fully that Salvado net

had

exiled her to Laurel Palace because

was aware of her actions. So, she

hey

would not have tried to cause

trouble with Kylie.

It couldn't have been Sylvia, nor could it have been Kylie.

But then, who could it have been?

Carissa made her way to Iridescent Palace with the hope of uncovering the answer.

Carissa believed Grace to be a very clever woman. The latter must have realized that even if she refused to provide the answer, the investigation would proceed regardless. The only question was how many would be caught in the crossfire.

Seated in the main hall of Iridescent Palace, Carissa observed the delicate, pale hands of Lyra as she served tea-hands that spoke of a life of comfort and privilege.

Grace appeared considerably more tired than usual, the dark circles under her eyes showing that she must not have slept all night.

She dabbed at her tears with a

vel

handkerchief, her voice thick with emotion as she said, "I never imagined such a tragedy would occur especially during His Majesty's birthday celebration. It is truly heartbreaking. Even Lcan scarcely bear to think of it. I'm afraid

both the king and queen must be... Oh, who could be so cruel?"

Carissa gazed at Grace's reddened eyes. Her tears were genuine, and the sorrow

in her expression was unmistakable.

"I hear Prince Caden was greatly frightened. Is he any better now?" Carissa asked.

Grace shook her head and sighed deeply. "He is much the same lost in his thoughts, unwilling to respond or even acknowledge anyone. I haven't dared to tell him about Prince Connor's death yet, for fear he would be unable to bear it."

From Ryan, Carissa had learned that Caden's bond with Connor had grown significantly stronger since they began studying together and practicing martial arts as a group. Whenever Caden had a special treat, he would think to share it with his elder brother. Likewise, Connor would always care for Caden, bringing him small tokens of amusement.

After Connor fell from his horse and was trampled, the scene was gruesome. Having witnessed it firsthand, it was natural for Caden to be terrified, but no one had expected it to affect him this badly.

Grace sighed again. "I know you have come to investigate at His Majesty's behest, but might I ask you to refrain from questioning him for now? I am truly concerned that he will not be able to endure it."

"You misunderstand, Lady Grace. I am not here to question Prince Caden. There is a matter I wish to discuss with you," Carissa replied.