Chapter 422

In front of them, Travis reiterated, “From now on, in the prince’s residence, you must call me by my name. I’m Travis—not Rod, not Troublemaker, and definitely not Shit Stick!”

Violet shrugged. “You’ve been known as Rod for a long time. But if it makes you happy to be called Travis, then so be it. In our hearts, you’ll always be just a rod.”

Carissa instructed someone to take Leah and Alana to freshen up and buy a few sets of clothing. They would head to Gracehold Estate early the next morning.

Since Rowan had asked Violet to deliver a prescription to Margaret at Ironridge Estate, they would need to pass Valor Estate. As they passed, Violet peeked through the curtain but saw nothing unusual, so she ignored it.

After delivering the prescription to the steward at Ironridge Estate, they didn’t linger and quickly proceeded to Gracehold Estate.

In the carriage, Carissa reviewed important points with Leah and Alana about what to be aware of once they entered the residence.

“We don’t take the initiative to hit anyone or make the first move. However, do not let that courtesan concubine approach the Duchess. If Mr. Langley comes to the Duchess’s room to vent his anger and causes her to be heartbroken, you need to escort him out.

Monitor the medicine she takes daily and inspect her food with a silver needle. I know Alana understands some pharmacology. Arrange for appropriate soups and such, but you don’t need to make them yourselves.

And remember, if there is any urgent situation that you cannot handle or is difficult to manage, ensure that one of you stays with the Duchess while the other comes to inform me immediately.”

Carissa provided detailed instructions and advised Leah and Alana to minimize contact with other people in the residence. Although Carissa believed Abigail wouldn’t harm Leona, she was wary that the family might look down on martial people. Thus, it was unnecessary for Leah and Alana to worry about others’ opinions while carrying out their duty.

In summary, the main concerns were Samuel and Ruby.

Alana nodded. “Got it. Don’t worry, that courtesan isn’t worth much—she’s as insubstantial as smoke. Just a gust of wind, and she’ll disappear. You don’t need to be too concerned about her.”

“I know. Anyway, it’s better to be cautious. There are also rules in large households. Let me tell you…”

As Carissa spoke, a foul odor suddenly wafted in from outside, accompanied by angry shouts and curses.

Startled, she turned to see Violet leaning against the carriage window, lifting the curtain to look outside. Carissa peered over and recognized the familiar entrance—it was the gates of Valor Estate. The front of the estate had been smeared with excrement. The culprit was being dragged inside as he continued cursing Aurora for insulting Mary. Despite being dragged, he seemed unafraid and continued his tirade.

Violet lowered the curtain and turned away. “It’s been days, and it’s still not settled. I really want to see Barrett’s face right now. Will he look upset or resigned?”

Carissa agreed that the situation had dragged on for quite a while. However, given that the Marquis of Jadehill’s household wasn’t accepting any apologies, it was likely to continue for some time.

“You really… Why did you lift the curtain?” Carissa remarked, noting that the smell had seeped into the carriage. She opened the curtain to let in some fresh air as they exited the alley.

“Just wanted to see the commotion,” Violet replied with a smile. “You can’t miss out on the excitement involving a scoundrel.”

Looking regretful, Alana said, “It’s a waste of that manure. It would be great for fertilizing vegetables.”

Leah nodded. “You’re right. People in the capital are so wasteful.”

At that moment, a carriage approached from the main street and turned into their lane. Carissa had opened the curtain, and the person inside the approaching carriage did the same. Their eyes met, and Viola immediately ordered, “Stop!”

The carriage came to a halt in front of Carissa’s. Viola stepped out. She was dressed in a crimson dress embroidered with gold threads. Her hair was styled in an elegant updo, with a hairpin inserted at an angle. Her expression was stern; dark circles under her eyes indicated she hadn’t slept well. It was likely she had returned early from visiting her family to avoid the mess caused by the excrement incident.

“Greetings, Your Grace!” Viola greeted with a bow, but her tone was cold and aloof.