Chapter 1311

Astral Prison, situated within the Supreme Court, operated independently of its jurisdiction. Its inmates were typically the most egregious offenders: members of royal families or influential officials. A sentence to Astral Prison signified the gravity of one's crime; few were released unscathed.

Zoey hoped for exile, believing it offered a chance at survival. She had sent Cedric to train with Travis, strengthening him for the arduous journey, anticipating a pardon and eventual return to the capital. As long as they survived, she had plans.

Viola, however, was stunned. Seized from the family's country villa by Royal Citadel guards, she found herself in Astral Prison without explanation. Initially dazed, she only questioned the situation upon seeing Evelyn's uncontrollable sobs. Evelyn was too distraught to answer.

A growing unease settled over Viola as she surveyed her family. "What's going on?" she demanded. "They've brought me here without explanation! Where are Caspian and Cedric?"

Zoey, holding Courtney in a corner, responded flatly, "Caspian and Cedric are in a different section. They've separated the men and women."

Viola's panic intensified. "What's happened? Is this a family disaster? Is there no one to help us?"

Luna, her eyes swollen from crying, whispered hoarsely, "Your eldest brother fled in battle. His Majesty ordered our entire family imprisoned. The Royal Citadel has seized Silverstone Estate."

Viola froze, struck speechless. After a long pause, she whispered, "But what does this have to do with me? I'm a married woman."

Zoey's voice was sharp. "Have you forgotten you're no longer married to Mr. Warren?"

"Regardless, this is unjust!" Viola cried, clutching the cell bars. "You have the wrong person! Even if divorced, I don't live at Silverstone Estate! I know nothing! I am innocent!"

The jailer outside stated coldly, "It's not a mistake. You are all the same." Their guilt or innocence was collective.

"No! We are not the same!" Viola screamed.

"Save your breath, Viola. It's His Majesty's order," Luna said, her voice trembling. She was afraid, but knew composure was essential.

When they were taken, Zoey had warned them against outbursts, stubbornness, or angering their captors. They were to remain calm, hopeful, and conserve their strength. They must eat, no matter how awful the food. Hope persisted only while they lived.

Thus, they remained silent. Screaming would only deplete their strength and will.

Seeing the futility of her outburst, Viola crawled to Zoey, grasping her shoulder, tears streaming down her face. "Zoey, you have a way out, don't you? Even if you don't care about us, you must care about your children!"

Zoey didn't flinch. "If I had a way out, I wouldn't be here."

Viola shook her head violently. "No! You and Carissa are close. Haven't you asked her for help? Sent someone to beg her?"

Zoey stared at Viola, then softly laughed. "Viola, you've always looked down on Lady Carissa. Why would I beg her now?"

"I've never looked down on her! When have I?" Viola wailed. "I can't die here! This is unfair!"

"Who here hasn't been treated unfairly?" Zoey retorted, hugging Courtney and turning away, ignoring Viola.