Chapter 705
Eleanor intervened to defuse the tension, giving Fiona a sharp glance to monitor Molly. Fiona, irritated by her status as a concubine, hesitated to correct Molly's overly familiar greetings. They had agreed beforehand that the evening should be solemn—a time for quiet reflection, copying scriptures, and praying for the departed, not socializing. Molly, however, began making small talk as if at a banquet, oblivious to the older ladies' disapproving expressions.
Fiona softly intervened, saying, "Lady Molly, let's copy scriptures together." Fiona had brought holy texts and had even practiced calligraphy while attending to her duties at the palace.
Molly reluctantly joined her at a low table. The unfamiliar script proved challenging, and her wrist soon ached. She considered stopping, but Eleanor's cold glare prevented her. Eleanor, with Molly present, remained vigilant as more ladies arrived, exchanging respectful greetings.
Outside, the offering table, laden with food and candles, had been prepared. The cost was to be shared among the attendees.
The priests, led by Zane, emerged after their vegetarian meal. Seven other renowned priests accompanied him.
As the ladies greeted them, Mildred smiled gently. "It's a blessing to see you and the other high priests again this year, Reverend Zane."
Zane, dressed in his priestly robes, nodded. "Peace be with you, madam. It's good to see you in good health." Though over eighty, he appeared much younger. His white hair framed a kind and compassionate face.
The older noblewomen greeted the priests, exchanging pleasantries. Molly attempted to join them, but Fiona restrained her with surprising strength. Molly, though capable of breaking free, resisted to avoid attracting attention.
Zane noticed the increased attendance and the ulterior motives evident on many faces. He had witnessed virtue and wickedness throughout his long life. He understood that people's intentions often showed in their expressions. While he couldn't change the world, he fulfilled his purpose by attending, not for Eleanor or the other noblewomen, but for the souls who had suffered untimely deaths.
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He knew, however, that what was truly needed wasn't him, but someone to guide the living away from their destructive paths. If such a person appeared, his presence would no longer be required.
With a solemn nod, he and the other high priests took their seats and began their prayers. The ladies followed suit. Rosalind and Nadine lit candles to burn the copied scriptures, a symbolic blessing. Molly, unsure of the proper prayer, assisted with the burning.
Eleanor, though reciting prayers to dispel evil, felt a profound and inexplicable unease, sensing great danger.
Meanwhile, at Hell Monarch Estate, Jacob awaited the night's events in his study. Preparations were complete. Carissa and Violet remained on standby, accompanied by Kyle, who refused to leave. The assassins, a select and secretive group unknown to Carissa, were already deployed. Jacob had not yet contacted the Capital Guard or the Garrison Unit. Rafael must have made prior arrangements with Michael. Jacob's earlier frantic activity had stemmed from concerns about Daniel's family.