Chapter 697 (+25 Bonus)

Helen's question revealed her suspicion that Janice had accepted a bribe and betrayed the Hell Monarch's family; she simply didn't know the briber.

"Grand Princess Eleanor," Carissa said softly.

Helen's anger flared. "What does she want? When did this begin?"

"Janice was likely already under Grand Princess Eleanor's influence while you were still in the palace. Wasn't Grand Princess Eleanor conducting business with you then? Janice must have repeatedly praised her to you," Carissa explained.

Helen narrowed her eyes, recalling the past and growing increasingly furious.

"She didn't just say nice things; she practically bragged! She claimed Grand Princess Eleanor's virtuous reputation was widespread, that she was highly respected among the capital's noble families, and that her skill in handling affairs earned universal praise, making her sound more capable than even my sister. It almost made me respect her!"

Violet interjected silently, noting that it wasn't respect but fear. Eleanor and Jessica had manipulated and bullied Helen. Without Carissa's intervention, Helen wouldn't have dared to confront anyone, even knowing she was deceived.

"Why did she place her people around me?" Helen still didn't understand. "I was in the harem, mostly chatting with my sister. After the king's ascension, I barely interacted with the queen or other concubines."

"Because you have an exceptionally talented son," Violet replied.

"Is this about Rafael? Does she want to harm him?" Helen's voice softened, her anger subsiding. "If so, why not place someone in the Hell Monarch Estate instead?"

Carissa stated, "Regardless of her motives, make it known and let the palace handle it."

Helen didn't understand. "Why hand her over to the palace? I brought Janice out myself. If I dealt with her, no one would dare say anything. Sending her back makes our household seem weak—incapable of handling a mere maid!"

Carissa explained, "It won't appear weak; it shows we follow protocol. When a palace servant commits an offense, they are handed to the Royal Management Department for punishment. How the department reports to the king or queen is beyond our concern."

Helen, still confused, sipped her coffee, her brow furrowed. "Why would a thieving maid catch the king's attention?"

Carissa took a sip, but Violet snatched the cup away. After downing the coffee, Violet explained, "Because she's a convicted servant sent back to the Royal Management Department from the Hell Monarch Estate. The king will certainly inquire about that."

Carissa smiled. "Do you understand now, Mother?"

Helen remained perplexed.

[The following section, starting with "She glanced at Gillian", is a continuation of the chapter and should not be preceded by "www J".]

She glanced at Gillian, who wore a knowing expression, and decided to ask her later. Nodding gravely, Helen set down her cup.

"I see. It makes sense now."

"You should rest, Mother. I'll take my leave," Carissa said, helping Violet to her feet.

"Alright, go ahead. I'm feeling sleepy," Helen replied.

In truth, she wasn't tired at all. She still had questions for Gillian.

When Carissa and Violet were gone, Helen turned to Gillian.

"You understand, don't you? Why would the king care about a thieving maid sent from our estate? Am I missing something?"

Gillian smiled knowingly. "Your Grace, Prince Rafael's achievements are remarkable, and Janice followed you from the palace. Now that she's committed an offense and is being sent back to the Royal Management Department, the king will certainly inquire, showing recognition of the prince's standing. It's a way of reassuring Prince Rafael."

"Is that it?" Helen felt something was amiss, yet the explanation brought a strange comfort—Rafael was highly valued.

Gillian began tidying the bed. "Alright, let the palace handle it. You should rest."

Gillian said nothing more. Carissa had smoothed things over and clearly didn't want Helen to know too much. Carissa likely intended to use this incident as a wake-up call for Helen, prompting her to be more mindful of those around her, especially when promoting new individuals, to avoid another Janice.

Gillian understood—Janice hadn't stolen the Mystic Pearl earrings; it was a convenient excuse to remove her. Perhaps Carissa intended to discreetly inform the king.

After lying down, Helen sat up again.

"From now on, I want you to keep a close eye on everyone in our household, inside and out. Report anything unusual to Carissa immediately."

"Of course!" Gillian beamed.