Chapter 1333

The man Gerald had asked Carissa to investigate was named Clifford Murphy. One of his ancestors had fought alongside the founding king, earning the hereditary title of Marquis of Doveshire. For unknown reasons, Clifford fell from favor with King Sigmund, his title reduced to Earl of Paxford. Afterward, he withdrew from the capital, living in seclusion near Ebonflow. Few in the capital likely remembered him.

“He never married, and the Murphy family business belongs to him,” Claire said.

Carissa’s eyes widened. “He’s the one behind the Murphy family business?”

The Murphy family business in Ebonflow was immensely lucrative. While not rivaling the Spencer family, its extensive connections spanned many industries. Many people in Starhaven shared the surname Murphy, but Clifford’s seclusion and refusal to see visitors meant no one suspected him as the true owner. A well-established enterprise, the Murphy family business had existed for over a century. Before Clifford left the capital, his family's involvement in business was unknown.

Claire explained, “The Murphy family business wasn't always his. When Mr. Murphy arrived in Ebonflow, the business was struggling, facing severe financial troubles and near collapse. He then purchased it.”

Carissa sighed. “Everyone’s hiding their secrets so well.”

“But what’s his motive?” Claire asked, puzzled. “He has no heirs, has severed ties with his relatives, and is at an age where he could be nearing the end of his life. Could he be seeking revenge against King Sigmund for stripping him of his title?”

Carissa considered this a possibility. Some people dedicate their lives to retribution. But the reason for Sigmund’s action remained unclear, known perhaps only to Gerald, and maybe Jeremiah.

Carissa debated whom to approach. She decided on Jeremiah. Gerald's health was poor, and his apparent interest in Clifford worried her. If Gerald discovered Clifford’s involvement in treason, his reaction could be dangerous. Worse, if guilt prompted Gerald to aid Clifford, the consequences would be catastrophic.

That evening, Carissa visited Jeremiah’s residence. The estate was dimly lit; Jeremiah lived frugally, sparing expense only on his study’s lighting. Informed of Carissa’s purpose, he led her into his study.

Upon hearing Clifford’s name, he froze, his eyes distant, lost in memory. A trace of regret colored his gaze as he spoke. “He was once commander of the Royal Guard under Kings Augustus and Sigmund. Before the Mystic Army’s establishment, the Royal Guard fell under his command. He was highly favored by King Sigmund. It’s said a king has no friends, but King Sigmund was an exception.”

“Mr. Murphy, some ten years older than King Sigmund, was not only his mentor but also a close friend. It’s said King Sigmund learned his martial arts from him. Both Mr. Murphy and Lord Quinton served as King Sigmund’s teachers—one in martial arts, the other in literature.”

Carissa listened intently. “So, even before King Sigmund became king, he knew Mr. Murphy?”

“Yes. Lord Quinton was a senior tutor. Tutors to the crown prince were typically people of vast knowledge and wisdom, but Lord Quinton, though only about thirty at the time, was an exception. Mr. Murphy was perhaps seven or eight years younger. They were very close, Mr. Murphy handling martial arts, and Lord Quinton the scholarly side.”

Jeremiah chuckled softly, tapping his temple. “My memory fades with age. Please bear with me, Grace.”

Carissa smiled gently. “No need to apologize. But why was Mr. Murphy stripped of his title?”

This piqued her curiosity. Sigmund’s close bond with Clifford, as both teacher and friend, was significant. Why had their relationship soured, resulting in Clifford's disgrace?

Jeremiah’s face darkened, reluctant to answer. “Why do you want to know?” he asked.

“It’s a matter of importance, not personal curiosity,” Carissa replied firmly.

She felt a slight pang of guilt; her professional interest was indeed intertwined with personal curiosity.

Jeremiah raised an eyebrow. “Have you asked Lord Quinton?”

“Lord Quinton might not be forthcoming, so I asked you first. Is this something you cannot reveal, Mr. Murray?” Carissa asked.

Jeremiah hesitated before nodding. “If it concerns important matters, then there’s no reason not to tell you.”