Chapter 722 (+25 Bonus)

Violet awoke to the news that Carissa had been appointed an official. Carissa would command the Mystic Army and oversee the Capital Guard, Garrison Unit, Royal Guard, and Crown Guard.

Violet was stunned. Gasping, she rubbed her eyes and asked, "Are you really going to be a 'government dog'?"

Carissa chuckled. "You mean a corrupt official? Why couldn't I be a good one?"

"A righteous official, then!" Violet propped herself up, tapping her chin. "Alright, you can definitely be a righteous official."

Carissa recalled their martial arts adventures. They had once scorned corrupt officials—the "government dogs"—but also respected the honest ones, true parental figures to their communities. Their journey had been short-lived; they were caught, and Everett even imprisoned Carissa for half a month.

Thinking of their Meadow Ridge adventures brought a bright, nostalgic smile to Carissa's face.

"You're going to be an official, and you're smiling so brilliantly," Violet said, her eyes misting. She hadn't seen Carissa smile like that in a long time.

"It's not just the appointment," Carissa said, her eyes twinkling. "It's escaping the rigid expectations of virtuous womanhood. I feel so much freer!"

Violet nodded. "That's true. I was so frustrated watching you interact with those noble ladies. You were smiling without showing your teeth! I felt like prying your mouth open!"

She paused, puzzled. "But why the sudden appointment? After your achievements, your popularity was at its peak. Appointing you now will likely face ministerial opposition. They won't want a woman in court."

"The king will handle the ministers," Carissa said. "As for why he chose me I won't waste time pondering it. I need to get closer to him. Only then will he see he needn't worry about the Hell Monarch's household."

Jacob, intending to urge Violet to fetch Jaina, was captivated by Carissa's words. Her vision was far broader than he'd imagined. She was worry-free. Meanwhile, Rafael remained preoccupied with the Duke of Northwatch's household and the Sinclair family, constantly overthinking.

Violet chimed in, "Let's celebrate tonight! I'll get Jaina first. The Marquis of Grovehill's household is probably chaotic; nobody will notice her absence. I'm also worried she might go to Harmony Palace. She still doesn't know the truth about Eleanor's so-called life-saving grace."

Jacob nodded. "Please hurry, Ms. Spencer."

"I'm on it. Perhaps you should bring your grandfather and mother, so they can see Jaina sooner. You haven't told them yet, have you?" Violet asked.

"Not yet, but it's a good idea. I'll get them," Jacob replied, nodding. "Thank you. I'll leave Jaina to you."

Violet smiled warmly. "No trouble at all. Carissa and I both love a happy reunion. By the way, has your father arrived?"

"I've sent for him. Please hurry, Ms. Spencer," Jacob said, feeling anxious.

Violet nodded, turning to Carissa. "I'll celebrate with you when I return!" She dashed out.

Jacob had secured a house in the capital, hiring maids and servants to care for his ailing grandfather and mother. His mother's health had suffered from her sister's disappearance, though Sebastian's care over the past couple of years had helped.