Chapter 723
A sudden commotion erupted in the capital that day. Albert York, having sent a servant to run errands, learned of the disturbance. He instructed the servant to remain uninvolved and ignore the events. His grandson served as head archivist at the Hell Monarch Estate, requiring strict neutrality in political matters.
Albert didn't believe the events would affect his family. Since moving to the capital, they had practiced caution in speech and action to avoid jeopardizing Jacob.
After breakfast, Albert sat in the small courtyard to enjoy the sun. With winter approaching, sunny days were becoming increasingly rare.
Jacob's mother, Ethel, approached and said respectfully, "Father, Daisy told me you didn't eat much breakfast. Are you unwell?"
"My appetite is simply off," Albert replied, opening his eyes. Noticing his daughter-in-law's weary expression, he added, "Another nightmare?"
"I've been dreaming of Jaina lately. I don't know what's happening," Ethel replied, her sadness evident.
Albert sighed, understanding her dreams were far more than simple dreams. They were nightmares of Jaina's torture—limbs severed, drowning, engulfed in flames.
"Your dreams reflect your waking thoughts. You worry too much. Think positively. Perhaps she's married, raising children, living peacefully," Albert said.
Ethel hesitated. Seeing the sadness in his eyes, she realized he was merely offering comfort, not genuine belief.
She nodded. "Yes, I should think positively. But if the heavens granted us one more glimpse of her, I would pay any price."
Albert reassured her, "Don't dwell on it. Many things are beyond our control. If you don't push too hard, you might be surprised."
In truth, they all clung to their obsessions, finding solace in shared sorrow.
"Speaking of which," Albert continued, "we must arrange Jacob's marriage. He's thirty and it's been delayed for years."
Ethel sighed. "Every time he comes home, I urge him to settle down, but he refuses. He says he needs to find his sister first."
"If he doesn't marry and have children, how will our family's legacy continue?" Albert lamented. Then, softening, he added, "Forget it. The boy is stubborn and impossible to persuade. I won't force him. Our family has suffered enough. Let him live as he pleases."