Chapter 438

This was Carissa's first banquet since marrying into the royal family. A poorly executed event could be disastrous, especially given Helen's anxiety about her own birthday banquet. Carissa was certain her mother-in-law wouldn't tolerate any embarrassment marring the celebration.

Therefore, Carissa personally consulted Helen about essential guests.

Helen feigned contemplation before saying, "If Dakota and Josephine can attend, then invite them. You can decide on the others."

Carissa knew these two women were crucial, especially Dakota. It was curious, however, that the late King Sigmund favored Shelby and Wanda, not Dakota and Josephine. Why was Helen estranged from Dakota and Josephine?

The marriage alliance with the Quinton family had improved Helen's relationship with Josephine, but her interactions with Dakota remained strained.

Carissa asked, "Did Dakota ever offend you?"

Helen snorted. "Don't be fooled by her appearance. She seems straightforward, but she's quite scheming. The late king often scolded me for being deceived by her."

Helen's anger suggested she was telling the truth. She was easily manipulated and susceptible to even the slightest scheming.

"And Josephine?" Carissa asked.

Helen grimaced. "She's always played the victim. Before the late king's death, she was a low-ranking concubine. After his death, and with the Quinton family's daughter becoming queen, her rank was elevated. But it's meaningless. In the harem, neither honored nor noble concubines have real power; it's just a slightly increased monthly stipend."

Although Helen downplayed it, her jealousy was evident. Despite her son Salvador's victory at the Southern Frontier, he hadn't elevated her status, and she couldn't propose it herself without revealing her desire.

A few days later, Jacob presented Carissa with a guest list. It included Eleanor and the Marquis of Ironridge's family, along with Dakota and Josephine (as Helen insisted). The list also featured several grand princesses, the Marquis of Jadehill's family, and noble families such as the Farrells, Quintons, the Earl of Gracehold's family, and the Earl of Silverstone's family.

Most families of fourth-rank officials and above were invited, and the Klein family was a must-invite.

+25 BONUS

After reviewing the list, Carissa said, "Alright, prepare the invitations and send them out as soon as possible."

Jacob nodded. "Understood. I will prepare the invitations according to the list."

"Thank you, Jacob."

Jacob added, "Now that you're in charge of household affairs, please be cautious with staffing. We vetted every servant before hiring. However, His Highness has been away at war for years, and Luke and I have been busy with administration. Some staff may have formed connections during this time. We conducted a thorough check upon His Highness's return, but we're still concerned about hidden affiliations. We also haven't had much interaction with Lady Helen's entourage."

Carissa considered this. While the Hell Monarch Estate's issues were manageable, she couldn't fully trust Helen's staff.

"I understand. Thank you for the reminder, Jacob," Carissa said with a smile.

Jacob nodded respectfully before leaving.

Carissa then summoned Gillian and requested a list of Helen's entourage, instructing that it remain confidential. Gillian, sharp and vigilant, immediately understood Carissa's intentions.