Chapter 335

After three rounds of toasts, Adrian and the apprentices from the Pathfinders Guild rose to offer their own. People were impressed not only by Adrian; even Kyle's absence didn't diminish the respect commanded by their presence. When it was their turn, even the Prime Minister stood to reciprocate.

Trevor, who had secured the marriage, was toasted by Adrian. Adrian drank his cup dry, while Trevor took only a small sip, a gesture of respect befitting the Royal Chancellor and considerate of his health.

Carissa's eyes reddened as she watched the Pathfinders Guild members rise to give toasts. Their presence was undoubtedly a show of support. Although the occasion was hosted by Rafael's household, the Pathfinders Guild members aimed to demonstrate that Carissa would also hold a place there in the future.

These customs, unusual in high-society marriages, were perfectly acceptable among martial artists. Who would dare challenge their traditions? Moreover, Adrian's noble background and Kyle's presence further solidified their position. Who would refuse them? Who would dare criticize their actions?

Eleanor and Jessica, however, maintained dark expressions throughout the event. Even when not frowning, their demeanor remained cold and sarcastic.

Seizing an opportunity, Eleanor sat beside Helen and sighed softly. "Helen, I'm concerned about your future. With such a powerful daughter-in-law, you, as the mother-in-law, may find it difficult to enforce any rules. She might even refuse to perform the post-wedding ritual tomorrow. You must be careful in your interactions with her. Any offense you cause might lead to retaliation."

Helen's emotions were too complex for her to fully process Eleanor's words. While pleased by Carissa's substantial dowry and connections, and the benefits they brought to Hell Monarch Estate (the center of attention that day), she realized this fortune belonged to Rafael, not directly to her. Eleanor's provocation stirred an even deeper turmoil within her.

Would she truly have to live under her daughter-in-law's shadow? Was there even such a rule? If a daughter-in-law showed disrespect, ethical officials monitoring moral and ethical conduct would swiftly intervene. But could today's events be judged by ordinary standards?

Helen worried that Carissa might appear dutiful while secretly undermining her—a troublesome prospect. Helen was self-aware; she'd been pampered her entire life and protected by her elder sister after entering the palace as a concubine. She hadn't needed to use her intellect much. If Carissa were manipulative, Helen would indeed face a difficult time. Her initial excitement faded, replaced by worry. Life in Rafael's residence now seemed dull and uneventful.

At the banquet the other day, Helen had noticed that many people didn't seem to regard her highly. As an honored concubine, she'd expected a stronger influence, hoping the lack of warmth was due to her past failures to cultivate relationships. But with Carissa's grand entrance, where would Helen fit into Hell Monarch Estate in the future? She felt disheartened.

Seeing her provocation had worked, Eleanor inwardly called Helen a fool and signaled Jessica, who had been standing nearby.

Jessica smoothly said, "Mother, I disagree. No matter how influential Carissa's background, our kingdom is governed with kindness and respect. Disrespecting elders is a grave offense. Even as a princess, I must respect my mother-in-law. When I joined my husband's family, I adhered to the rules for a full year."

This lifted Helen's spirits. That was right. Even with the king's backing, traditional values would weigh heavily on Carissa. Disrespect would crush her. Helen felt renewed satisfaction.

Eleanor chuckled. "I only fear that may not be the case. Helen, if you're confident, try asking her for a jar of those Mystic Pearls tomorrow and see if she gives them to you. That will show whether she's truly respectful." Those Mystic Pearls drove Eleanor mad with envy.

Helen, concerned with appearances, immediately responded, "Why wouldn't she give them to me? They're just Mystic Pearls. I won't even need to ask—I can simply take them."

Eleanor laughed heartily. "Is that so? Then go retrieve a few pearls now and give them to me for safekeeping. If she doesn't chase after you, I'll consider myself defeated and return the pearls, giving you an additional three thousand silver coins. But if you lose, the pearls are mine."