Chapter 225

Using money obtained from Helen, Eleanor fueled gossip in taverns and coffeehouses, exaggerating Carissa's supposed neglect of her family duties.

Carissa remained silent, even closing the doors of Northwatch Estate and refusing to respond publicly—a silence that satisfied Eleanor. Eleanor believed Carissa was frightened by the public outcry and reveled in her victory. She considered Carissa's opposition futile, like fighting a rock with an egg.

Riding high on her success, Eleanor went to the palace to see Salvador. She argued that Rafael's marriage to Carissa posed a hidden danger to his throne. For the kingdom's stability, she suggested preventing Carissa's entry into Rafael's household.

She expected a serious consideration of her words, but Salvador responded with a cold and stern expression.

“Aunt Eleanor, what are you saying? My brother and Carissa are military commanders devoted to defending the Southern Frontier and our kingdom. They have shown loyalty to me and the court. Moreover, my brother and I have been close since childhood. He would never harbor ulterior motives. Please do not make baseless accusations.”

Eleanor was taken aback, then quickly resumed her authoritative tone as his aunt and elder.

“You are being foolish. Can human hearts ever be absolutely trusted? Are there not countless instances of royal family members turning against each other? If you are so naive as to believe in him, he might exploit your trust for malevolent purposes.”

The king's face darkened. He removed his malachite ring and placed it heavily on the desk, his gaze icy and sullen. Derek, standing beside Salvador, quickly raised his eyebrows in alarm and knelt hastily.

“Grand Princess Eleanor, please be cautious with your words. If such remarks spread, the court might accuse you of sowing discord between the king and the Hell Monarch, which would be detrimental to you and harmful to both the king and Prince Rafael.”

“Currently, the realm is peaceful, and the relationship between the king and his ministers is good. Furthermore, the marriage between Prince Rafael and Lady Sinclair is already confirmed. If the king were to issue an edict to break this engagement, how would the world view him?”

Eleanor looked at the malachite ring on the desk, furrowing her brows. While disregarding Derek's concerns, she noted Salvador's dismissive attitude; he even viewed her as meddlesome. The malachite ring, a gift from the late king, signified displeasure when removed and placed on the desk.

With a deep sigh, Eleanor decided to retreat. “Your Majesty, I only wish what is best for you.”

“If you truly wish me well, then offer some estates and properties as gifts for my brother’s wedding, Aunt Eleanor. I’m sure both my brother and Carissa will appreciate your kindness,” Salvador replied coolly.

Eleanor was momentarily stunned. After a long pause, she sighed. “It is said that honest words are harsh to hear. Your Majesty, you should consider that I never came today.”

Salvador replied indifferently, “Indeed, it’s not appropriate for you to visit the palace frequently, especially not my study. Even if I were the most foolish of kings, I have the entire court to assist me. There is no need for you to worry.”

Eleanor stared at him in shock, her face alternating between pale and flushed with anger. It took a moment for her to regain her composure. Then, she turned on her heel and left without a word, her anger radiating as she went.

Derek rose and said softly, “Your Majesty, please calm your anger. Grand Princess Eleanor has always been headstrong and domineering. It is likely that her actions today were not intended to offend.”

Salvador replied coolly, “It is not a serious matter if an aunt calls her nephew foolish. There is no reason for me to be angry.”

Derek bowed his head. “You’re wise as always, Your Majesty.”

For a king, allowing such chastisement was unacceptable; not even his mother would dare speak so bluntly. Eleanor had overstepped her bounds.

Chapter 226

The rumors about Carissa continued to spread for several days, growing increasingly intense. In a coffeehouse, a storyteller was denouncing Carissa, accusing her of disrespecting her parents. The patrons joined in, condemning her loudly.

Then, a voice rang out, “Absurd! Lady Sinclair married more than three years after the Duke of Northwatch’s death. I personally chose the date for her wedding! To say she married before completing her mourning period is to accuse me of disregarding familial duties. Do you dare slander me? I will have this reported to the authorities!”