Chapter 1160
Carissa and the others awaited Isaac and Violet's return. Learning of their visit to Silverstone Estate, Carissa felt uneasy; the Earl of Silverstone's family situation was complex.
"Don't worry, we didn't reconcile or formally acknowledge each other," Isaac reassured her, patting her shoulder and offering a brief smile. "Initially, it was moving, but then it felt… insincere."
On the return journey, he reflected on his encounter with Evelyn. Her words, the more he considered them, clarified everything. Compared to Caspian's genuine emotion, Evelyn's words seemed self-serving, not directed at him. This explained her lack of concern for his well-being; she only cared about whether he and Zoey believed her story.
Carissa, confused, looked to Violet for clarification, but Violet only shook her head, equally uncertain.
"Go ahead and sleep. It's late," Isaac said, walking away hands behind his back. His lighthearted demeanor eased everyone's concerns.
Violet remained to explain: Caspian and Evelyn had been uncontrollably emotional. She admitted uncertainty regarding Isaac's perception of insincerity.
Carissa, learning Zoey had also been present, decided, "I'll ask Madam Zoey about it next time." She hadn't previously questioned Zoey because Isaac hadn't mentioned anything; now, however, she felt free to ask.
The following day, before Carissa could visit, Zoey arrived. She stated her purpose directly, presenting two matters. First, she needed Carissa's help persuading Isaac to acquire some of the Earl of Silverstone family's assets. Second, she wanted to ensure Isaac didn't believe Evelyn's words, urging him against reconciliation or further contact with her.
Zoey was forthright, explaining her reasoning for each request. Knowing Carissa's trustworthiness, she revealed everything she knew about the Southern Frontier situation.
"Someone frequently meets with Celeste at Redstone Manor's back gate. There's no written correspondence, only verbal messages. I suspect Celeste, despite escaping blame for her involvement with Eleanor, is now implicated with those behind her."
"Rest assured, Your Grace, I've sent only trustworthy men. They appear to be Oliver's trusted advisors, but they're actually my people. They answer only to me." Carissa's reassurance, "I trust you, Madam Zoey," calmed Zoey's anxiety.
Information often leaked from the Southern Frontier to Hell Monarch Estate; however, such secretive dealings could only be uncovered by those with connections within the marshal's household—it required trained observation.
"I worried Oliver couldn't handle the Southern Frontier, so I sent my people with him. Seven or eight, all under my command. The truth is, he's been useless—accomplishing nothing. He just shouts orders and goes home," Zoey explained, her concern evident.
"I know, Madam Zoey," Carissa replied calmly. "Without war, his inaction is insignificant. It's better for him to do nothing than cause trouble." Frankly, his erratic orders were unproductive; it would be better for him to remain at Redstone Manor with Celeste.
Timothy and Louis were stationed there, focusing on troop training and fortifications during peacetime.
Zoey asked, "Your Grace, who is the traitor?"
Carissa shook her head. "I only know part. Much remains unclear, but it will soon be. Don't ask; it's better you know nothing."
Zoey nodded. "Then, am I worrying unnecessarily?"
Carissa paused. "One can never be too prepared. Follow your instincts. Isaac is reliable."
This moment, intended to bring Zoey recognition and support after a long solitary struggle, only weighed heavier on her heart. It confirmed her worst fears.
After the Starlight Harvest Festival, colder weather arrived. Barrett arrived at the Southern Frontier. His current status prevented direct contact with the marshal; instead, he sought out Timothy. Presenting a document from the Ministry of Defense, Timothy formally took him under his wing, instructing him simply to stay out of trouble.