Chapter 503

The phrase "respected and remembered" was revealing. Like Viola, Kayla had lost her husband in battle. Their shared sorrow prompted Kayla's kindness, which Viola unfortunately didn't appreciate, leaving Kayla embarrassed.

Hearing the woman's identity, Carissa understood the situation but didn't comment. Instead, she changed the subject, asking Kiera about her chosen pieces. Carissa also needed a gift for her simple-minded mother-in-law; leaving Helen at home would likely upset her.

The Mystic Pearl set design was finalized, and Kiera selected several other pieces. Hugging her sister-in-law, she expressed her affection for Carissa.

Nathaniel chuckled. Compared to Viola and Serena's tense exchange outside, this pair displayed genuine affection.

Despite being a businessman, Nathaniel respected the kingdom's military generals. The entire Duke of Northwatch's family—from the youngest general to the current princess consort of the Hell Monarch—were renowned for their bravery and contributions to Starhaven. Therefore, Nathaniel offered a generous discount, selling almost at cost and including extra hairpins and accessories. He even personally escorted them to the carriage.

In the carriage, Carissa recounted stories about Kayla (of the Marquis of Elderglen's family) and the comparisons made between her and Viola.

"However," Carissa said, pausing and sighing, "I only heard this later. I don't know the extent of the turmoil, but from Kayla's tone today, she seemed unaware of the full story."

"In reality," Carissa continued, "whether it's Kayla or Viola, neither is wrong in choosing to remain widowed or remarry. Each path presents challenges; no one can alleviate that suffering, and one shouldn't resent others who've faced similar hardships but chosen differently."

Violet agreed. "You're right. Every choice invites judgment. Ultimately, it's personal. Kayla chose the loneliness of widowhood, and Viola, having remarried, should move on. Yet, because Kayla helped her, Viola bought that headpiece for over 36,000 silver coins. Can her dowry even cover that? I heard the Farrell family gave her Thomas's compensation and some shops. She wouldn't use that compensation for Serena, would she?"

Violet added somberly, "If Thomas were watching, he'd be rolling in his grave."

Distressed, Kiera leaned on Carissa's shoulder. "Carissa, what kind of person was Thomas?"

Carissa replied, "The Farrell family has always been military, but never exceptionally high-ranking. Thomas had the potential to be a renowned general. He was skilled and intelligent, initially serving under my maternal grandfather. Later, when my father went to the Southern Frontier, my grandfather transferred Thomas, hoping he'd make a name for himself. Unfortunately, he was killed in action."

Carissa hoped Septimus was Thomas.

Oliver now commanded the Hell Monarch Army. Brave, he lacked Thomas's intelligence and strategy, falling short of even Louis and Timothy. Oliver's family and title justified his command of both the Hell Monarch and Sinclair armies.

The king promoted young generals. If Septimus were Thomas, Salvador would undoubtedly give him significant responsibilities.

Violet rested her head against the carriage window, contemplating Carissa's words about Septimus. If he were Thomas, his loyalty and endurance would be rare.

He was a hero!

What was Barrett compared to him?

How could the Warren family compare to the Farrells?

Viola compared Thomas to Barrett? Please!

She's nauseating!

She's a disgrace!

She didn't deserve Thomas!