Chapter 661 (+25 Bonus)
The Marquis of Grovehill's family had long been prominent in Starhaven. However, their age brought increasing difficulties. The family had grown rapidly, but lacked the land and income to support its members and maintain its wealth and status.
Under the current marquis, Martin (Henry's father), the family had gradually declined. Generations of wealth had loosened strict family rules, and the younger generation, secure in their noble status, showed less willingness to endure the hardships of study or martial arts, believing a comfortable life was assured.
Were it not for Henry's marriage to Eleanor, the Grovehill family might have fallen into obscurity. Martin held no significant court position, and few family members held ranks above the fifth.
Entering Grovehill Estate, Violet noticed intricately carved family crests—evidence of the family's former prominence. Two crests were prominently displayed in the main hall alone, suggesting a fear of being forgotten. The hall's decor showed its age, but the luxurious, aged wooden furniture radiated understated elegance.
To facilitate the marriage proposal, Gemma invited Violet and Thomas to a side hall and sent for Lisette. Violet noted Gemma's well-maintained appearance despite her age, and Henry's resemblance to his mother, particularly in their brows and speech.
"Please have some coffee," Gemma offered with a warm smile. Though kind in demeanor, Violet knew Gemma was aware of the deception. Lisette was not Gemma's relative, nor was "Lisette Sanford" her real name; it was an identity fabricated by Eleanor. This deception surely required Gemma's family's cooperation.
Over tea and polite conversation, Violet noticed Gemma eyeing Thomas repeatedly. Rumors of his involvement with Viola had recently subsided. Gemma, sipping her tea, thought Thomas a striking young man, understanding Viola's persistence.
"Alice, you're truly blessed. Thomas is brave and capable, having accomplished much for the kingdom. Once he marries and starts a family, you will enjoy a life of comfort," Gemma remarked.
"Yes, we hope he will marry soon. I'd like to hold my grandchild soon!" Alice replied eagerly.
Gemma, noting Alice's eagerness, softly instructed a maid, "Please remind Lisette not to keep our guests waiting too long."
"Yes, Madam Gemma!" the maid replied, quickly leaving.
Chapter 661 (+25 Bonus)
In her chambers, Darin, though dressed, hesitated to leave. Gazing into the mirror, conflict overwhelmed her. Eleanor had saved her life, returning her to the palace and providing luxurious clothing and food. Though unaccustomed to such opulence, Darin recognized Eleanor's kindness and felt an unpayable debt.
Eleanor intended to marry her off, and Darin would have accepted any honorable suitor, regardless of disability. However, the night before arriving at Grovehill Estate, Eleanor revealed a shocking plan: Darin was to marry Thomas and bring him closer to Yuvan, or, if that failed, to kill him.
The thought was utterly flustering. Darin had noticed strange occurrences at Harmony Palace, but her access was restricted, and she dared not investigate fully. Once, she'd been awakened by a woman's scream, but a guard had claimed a thief was being punished, despite the scream's unmistakably feminine quality. The idea of a woman stealthily robbing a princess seemed improbable.
"Ms. Lisette, the Farrell family has arrived," a maid announced, urging her to hurry. "Madam Gemma requests your presence."
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