Chapter 1255  Carissa asked a few more questions to piece the whole situation together.  Roxana’s parents, Anna and George, wanted to provide money for their third son’s wedding. Thus, they decided to venture into the old forest while the wild beasts were hibernating for the winter. Most of the best medicinal herbs grew on the steepest mountainsides, and that was where they had gone.  However, after several days of trekking up the mountain, both of them were cold, hungry, and exhausted. In a tragic turn of events, Anna slipped on the icy ground, and George reached out to grab her. As a result, the two of them tumbled down the slope together.  If it hadn’t been for some herb collectors passing by, they would have surely perished on that mountain. Though they had been lucky enough to survive, their injuries were severe. Anna had injured her back, and George had broken his leg. Neither would ever be able to work again, and they would require constant care. With their injuries still needing treatment, they would also need money for further medical expenses.  Meanwhile, their third son’s marriage was fast approaching, and the girl who had once spoken about unity now found herself a victim of circumstance.  “Do her parents know?” Carissa asked.  “They don’t,” Cynthia replied. “Her parents weren’t even living in a brick house–they’ve been carried back to their old, dilapidated home to recover.”  “And does everyone else agree to sell her?” Carissa pressed.  “I don’t know, but her eldest brother already made the arrangements. Five silver coins. The man who wanted to buy her was already at their door. Luckily, I got there first and took her away by force.”  Carissa nodded. “Leave this to Lily. Follow her and let her handle it, but don’t confront them directly or openly cause harm.”  Cynthia was well aware of the delicate way things should be handled. She recalled what Violet had told them during their time in Hell Monarch Estate.  “Even if you want to hit someone, don’t do it in broad daylight where everyone can see. It’s better to do it quietly, and never let them know who did it. It’s safer that way.”  The advice was to be cautious so that no one could make a fuss about it later.  “I held it in and didn’t hit anyone today,” Cynthia continued. “I just brought her back. I’ll go find Lily now. Let’s have dinner together later.”  With that, she hurried out the door.  When Carissa returned to the estate in the evening, Lily had already finished handling the situation. The two of them entered together, talking as they went.  1/2  +25 BONUS  Chapter 1255  “We’ve already sent for Ms. Ivy to treat Roxana’s parents. The Hell Monarch’s household will cover the cost of the medical treatment. As for the rest, it was her eldest brother and sister–in- law’s idea. Since they were the eldest in the family, they were afraid the burden would fall entirely on their shoulders.  “They decided to find a way to get money quickly, and the fastest way was to sell someone. Roxana’s age was right for this, so someone had already taken an interest in her. It would’ve been settled right then, but thankfully, Ms. Perez got there in time. Otherwise, they’d have sold her off already.”  After a pause, Lily continued, “Ms. Perez is still there, and Ms. Ivy hasn’t left yet. The family is deeply grateful now, but I’m worried. Her eldest brother and sister–in–law aren’t good people, and I fear they may try to sell her again in the future. That’s why I gave them the money to settle it. For now, I haven’t told her parents about any of this–I’m afraid it would only make their condition worse if they knew.  “As for what to do with the girl, whether she stays in the estate as a maid or returns to the academy–that’s for you to decide, Your Grace.”  Lily’s explanation was clear and concise.  Carissa nodded thoughtfully. “She cannot stay as a maid. She will return to the academy. It’s better this way–no distractions. If she focuses on her studies, she’ll have a bright future.”  Carissa had made a bet with Gerald, claiming she would train female generals and officials. Even so, it wasn’t really a bet—it was a genuine desire of hers to see women take charge. Training female officials was challenging, but with Starhaven’s current circumstances, there were already women on the battlefield–one was Aurora, and another was herself. If Roxana had the courage and determination, she could follow this path too.  Before dinner, Carissa took a moment to speak with Roxana privately.  The young girl was still anxious and couldn’t help but worry about her parents.  “I know you’re concerned about your parents,” Carissa began gently. “You want to protect them, but when you don’t have the strength to do so, it’s just empty words. The only way to protect those you love is to become strong yourself. And from this, I hope you learn one more thing: first, take care of yourself. Once you’ve learned to love and protect yourself, you’ll be able to do the same for others.”  Roxana’s eyes welled with tears, but she forced herself to hold them back. She fought to keep her voice steady, and with a shaky breath, she whispered, “I understand. Thank you, Your  Grace.”