Chapter 1313
The following morning, Irvin presented the matter to the court. Jeremiah nodded his approval. “I’ve heard of Mrs. Prince’s commendable act of establishing the food distribution stall,” he said. “It’s uncommon for a woman, confined to domestic life, to have such an opportunity for charitable work. Despite her circumstances, she has remained true to her heart, performing good deeds and cultivating virtue. This is worthy of praise and should be widely publicized as an example. It is regrettable, however, that such a virtuous woman should be ensnared by her husband’s actions and imprisoned in Astral Prison, her future uncertain.”
Malcolm stepped forward. “The populace has discussed nothing else these past few days, and many openly support Mrs. Prince. Your Majesty, while Mr. Prince’s actions are unforgivable, punishing his family by stripping them of their titles and property is sufficient. I urge clemency and a more lenient sentence.”
Salvador, however, intended to use Oliver’s family to secure his surrender; therefore, their release, or a lighter sentence, was impossible. “I will consider it carefully,” he declared. “A new warrant will be issued for Mr. Prince’s arrest, and a notice posted: if he surrenders, his family will receive a more lenient sentence.”
Zoey’s good deeds served as a model for noblewomen, deeply affecting even Salvador. Anthony stepped forward respectfully. “Understood, Your Majesty. I will carry out your commands.”
Carissa remained on leave, a circumstance affording her unusual freedom of movement. The royal edict had already been dispatched to the Southern Frontier by swift riders. While the Southern Frontier’s military trusted Rafael, the edict provided crucial legitimacy. The Ministry of Defense had also shipped the newly produced six-barreled matchlocks to the Southern Frontier. Their first battlefield deployment was highly anticipated.
The Southern Frontier war heightened urgency in the capital. Curfews were imposed, and inns and taverns rigorously inspected. Even disreputable establishments, such as brothels, came under scrutiny. The Sandorian spies discovered in gentlemen’s clubs raised concerns about others operating within the city.
Though on leave, Michael and Max kept Carissa apprised of the situation. Max informed her of Salvador’s decree: Oliver’s surrender might result in a lighter sentence for his family. Carissa felt frustrated. Salvador still failed to understand Oliver. Didn’t Oliver realize this flight would ruin his family? He knew, but he didn’t care. Oliver was disloyal, unjust, lacking compassion, neglectful of his family, and utterly devoid of decency. Such a man was unlikely to surrender voluntarily.
Carissa visited the Arcane Sanctum, obtaining several medicinal preparations from Sebastian before proceeding to Astral Prison. The Earl of Silverstone’s family, including the elderly and children, could survive on meager rations, but illness would be perilous. Without proper care, death was imminent.
Galen oversaw Astral Prison personally. A random servant would never gain entry, so Carissa’s personal visit was necessary. Though Galen dared not stop her, he remained cautious, inspecting the medicines. He summoned the prison physician, who examined the remedies: treatments for common ailments—colds, heatstroke, diarrhea, vomiting—and ointments for itching and poison. Finding no poison, Galen permitted entry.
Carissa then requested a private meeting with Zoey in the interrogation room. Galen, acquainted with Kevin and aware of his connection to Violet, readily agreed and personally fetched Zoey. His announcement of the meeting sparked anxiety among Courtney and Luna, who insisted on accompanying Zoey. Even the concubines’ daughters, though frightened, clung to her. Viola, however, retreated behind Evelyn.
Galen calmly announced, “Quiet. Lady Carissa wishes to see her.” Hearing Carissa’s name brought relief. Evelyn scrambled to her feet, grasping Zoey’s hand. “Lady Carissa has come! Ask her to save us and inquire about Oliver!”
Zoey quietly withdrew her hand, her expression cold and indifferent. As Galen opened the door, she lowered her head, offering a simple thank you. Galen observed her adaptability; had she maintained her usual arrogance, the guards would have subjected them to unbearable torture.