Chapter 569

Although puzzled, Richard respectfully led Jeremiah to the inner hall and had coffee served. Jeremiah's bright smile eased some of Richard's concerns.

"May I ask what private matter you've come to discuss?"

"Congratulations."

Jeremiah set down his cup, beaming. He wanted to reveal the news quickly, but the joy was so immense that he feared Richard might be overwhelmed. He decided to proceed cautiously.

"Congratulations?" Richard was even more perplexed. As Minister of Protocol, further promotion seemed unlikely. "May I ask what this is for?"

Jeremiah replied, "What was once lost has now been found."

Richard's confusion deepened. "Something lost? I haven't lost anything recently."

"His Majesty has decreed that the Ministry of Protocol prepare to welcome the heroes of the Southern Frontier campaign. Among them are two heroes from your family."

This revelation stunned Richard. His face changed dramatically. He took a deep breath. "Hashas the remains of my two sons been found?"

Jeremiah looked at him. "Remains? The two young men of the Cooper family are alive. The Hell Monarch brought them back from Sandoria. After their capture, they escaped, formed the Septimus Tetra reconnaissance team, and provided intelligence for our army during the Southern Frontier battle."

Richard clutched his chest, shaking his head in disbelief. Tears welled in his eyes as he choked out, "No, Mr. Murray, you can't be joking. When they died on the battlefield, it felt like my heart was ripped out. It can't be"

Jeremiah stood, patted his shoulder, and gave him a thumbs-up. "They did well. I'm proud of them and the entire Septimus Tetra reconnaissance team."

Tears streamed down Richard's face as he trembled. "Is it truly so? Are you telling the truth?"

Seeing Richard's reaction, Jeremiah sighed softly. "It's true. His Majesty has issued an edict for the Ministry of Protocol to prepare for their reception. However, they won't be returning to the capital immediately. The Marquis of Elderglen's second son is severely injured and requires treatment before returning."

Richard hid his face in his arms. His shoulders shook silently. As Minister of Protocol, he knew he must maintain composure before the prime minister and in the office, but he couldn't control the torrent of tears.

The pain of losing his sons had been buried deep in his heart for years, suppressed beneath a mountain of official duties. His sons had sacrificed themselves to reclaim the Southern Frontier, and as a father, he was proud of them. Yet, for a parent, the loss of a child is an overwhelming, agonizing sorrow.

"I'll step out for a moment and ensure you're not disturbed," Jeremiah said, his own eyes misty. He wanted to give Richard time alone to process his emotions.

Once Jeremiah left, Richard collapsed to the floor and wept silently. Years had passed since he'd allowed himself such an outpouring of grief. Even then, he'd only dared to cry in private. As the head of the family, he felt he should be proud of their sacrifice and not display his sorrow publicly.

At the Farrell family residence, Derek personally delivered the news. Thomas's mother, Alice, was so overcome with emotion that she fainted. After reviving her, she wept in Opal's embrace.

"He's alive! He's still alive! Oh, he has such a cold heart. He didn't send any word home"

Opal also cried, but with Derek present, she restrained herself and quickly comforted Alice.

"He couldn't send word home. There, it was a matter of life and death. Sending news to the military was already extremely difficult."

Once Alice calmed down, she stood and bowed to Derek. "Please forgive my outburst." Derek responded kindly, "It's only natural. There's no need for formality."

Derek departed. As he left the Farrell residence, he heard Alice's choked voice, "What will we do? His wife has remarried."

Derek sighed softly. The world was full of change. It was heartening to see fallen soldiers return, yet it was a pity that the seven from the Sinclair family would never come back.