Chapter 1169
As soon as Helen entered the palace, she eagerly strolled through the gardens with Dakota and Josephine. Her striking red ruby jewelry brilliantly complemented her complexion, a fact she intended to be widely noted.
Meanwhile, Rafael accompanied Carissa to visit Victoria. A throng of noble ladies, both from within and outside the palace, gathered to join them.
Just then, Alice, Thomas's mother, arrived to greet Victoria. To Alice's surprise, Victoria inquired about Thomas's marriage before the assembled ladies.
A wave of bitterness washed over Alice, but she dared not complain. Instead, she forced a smile and replied, "Your Majesty, matters of marriage cannot be rushed."
Victoria sighed. "It's a shame he's been unjustly embroiled in this. The Farrell family has always been kind, yet some are causing this chaos."
Alice then understood Victoria's intent—the Queen Dowager was clearing Thomas and the Farrells' name. Gratitude swelled in her heart, bringing tears to her eyes.
Her voice hoarse, she whispered, "He's simply been unlucky."
Victoria shook her head. "Nonsense. He's one of Starhaven's great generals, deeply favored by the king. How can he be unlucky? His destiny, and his fated match, will come in time."
Alice bowed deeply. "Yes, Your Majesty. Thank you for your concern."
The other ladies now regarded Alice differently. Previously, their gazes held a hint of mockery; the scandal was widely known, and no one dared claim innocence.
Victoria's words had shifted the dynamic. Her praise of Thomas as a great general resonated deeply. Victoria rarely discussed matters of the previous reign, making her mention of Thomas all the more significant. The astute ladies understood her implicit message: no one would again belittle the Farrell family or gossip recklessly about them.
Victoria then shifted the conversation to the affairs of other families, her gaze sweeping the room. Noticing Marjorie's absence, she inquired casually. Lydia's messenger arrived, explaining Marjorie's illness and her desire to avoid infecting Victoria.
Victoria sighed softly, gesturing for the messenger to leave. She spoke no more on the matter.
Chapter 1170
That sigh, and Victoria's expression, spoke volumes, prompting courtiers to recall rumors about Malcolm and his mistress.
Carissa, observing from the side, was impressed by Victoria's skill. With a few words and gestures, she had ignited conversation that would likely continue from Midwinter's Dawn to year's end.
In one concise sentence, Victoria silenced rumors about the Farrell family, portraying them as victims. She emphasized Thomas's high military standing, instantly silencing any criticism.
Then, with a subtle sigh, she subtly reminded the ladies of Malcolm's affair, cleverly shifting the focus from the Farrells to the Quintons. It was brilliant.
Rafael soon excused himself, leaving Carissa amidst the noblewomen. They immediately showered her with compliments: some on her and Rafael's affection, others on her commanding presence, and still others on Rafael's imposing appearance. Several inquired about a potential pregnancy.
Marriage and children were favored topics, and Carissa replied with a smile, "There's no rush. Having children can't be forced."
Her answer held a subtle strain, hinting at unspoken concerns. Both Carissa and Rafael had seen battle, so hidden injuries weren't surprising.
The women suggested various physicians and remedies, their conversation lively and warm.
Carissa wondered if they had discussed such matters behind her back. Her suspicion was not unfounded; many had speculated, some whispering that Rafael's injuries had damaged his health irreparably, while others claimed Carissa's battlefield injuries prevented childbearing.
The remedies offered ranged from those for men to those for women. Carissa graciously accepted them all with a smile. Finally, with Victoria's silence, the conversation ceased.