Chapter 1082

Carissa visited Nathaniel at the Golden Tower. As a shrewd and forthright businessman, he diligently pursued wealth but also possessed a strong sense of patriotism. Unable to pursue scholarship or martial arts, he generously supported national causes during wartime. He admired Carissa and desired friendship, but his business often prevented him from seeing her. Her visit, therefore, was warmly received.

Nathaniel had heard whispers about the Crystal Springs incident but deemed it too sensitive, involving high-ranking officials, to investigate fully. He knew only that a young woman had suffered greatly. When Carissa proposed investigating, he readily agreed. Slapping his chest confidently, he declared, "Leave it to me, Lady Carissa. Just await my good news."

Less than half a day later, Nathaniel arrived at Capital Guard headquarters seeking assistance. He explained that a noble guest had lost an emerald pendant at Crystal Springs and requested the Garrison Unit's help in recovering the heirloom. Lost items were rarely recovered when reported by ordinary citizens, but this individual held notable, though undisclosed, status—a retired high-ranking official.

Initially, the matter attracted little attention. However, the request for assistance justified an investigation. Crystal Springs' high entrance fees and attentive staff made tracing visitors relatively straightforward.

Malcolm had reserved Emerald Pool that day, but he and his wife were accounted for at a temple, verifiable by a novice priest.

Carissa and Max surveyed Crystal Springs, noting its location east of the temple, approximately 1.5 miles distant, enclosed within a wall with a single entrance. Reservations were typically required due to its popularity.

Carissa examined the guest list, while Max questioned the staff about suspicious individuals. The high cost ensured clientele consisted primarily of wealthy families or high-ranking officials. Staff confirmed everyone had proceeded directly to their reserved pools; none had visited Malcolm's. Since Malcolm hadn't attended, no staff were assigned to Emerald Pool that day, and no unauthorized entry was noted. Carissa found no suspicious entries; the list comprised prominent officials and wealthy merchants, each reportedly remaining in their reserved pool and escorted out by staff.

The Whitley family's reservation explained Douglas's presence with Karen at the springs.

Carissa then focused on Malcolm's party. She learned from the temple staff that Malcolm and Marjorie, accompanied by a coachman, two guards, and four maids, had been present. While the staff confirmed Malcolm and Marjorie remained at the temple, the whereabouts of the remainder of their party were uncertain. This narrowed the focus to the two guards and the coachman.

A crucial detail struck Carissa: how had Crystal Springs' staff known Malcolm was absent? She immediately dispatched Max to re-question the staff. Realizing his oversight, Max quickly rode to Crystal Springs.

After questioning several staff members, Max's inquiry finally elicited the truth. A staff member confessed that one of Malcolm's guards had presented the reservation slip, claiming Malcolm's absence. The guard then bribed the staff and used the reservation himself.