Chapter 733

“Claire and the others may know Celeste’s location, but I doubt they’re tracking her. After such a large case, they’re probably on standby in the capital,” Carissa said.

“I returned specifically to have them monitor Yuvan’s capital residence, Edgeview Estate, as well as Hartstone Estate. While they likely won’t act rashly now, the weapons production and transportation involve many people. Plus, the dungeon wasn’t full, so they’re probably still acquiring more. Since Aunt Eleanor’s death, Uncle Yuvan or Uncle Harvey will assume control. We need to closely monitor them,” Rafael replied.

“Understood. I’ll speak to Violet later,” Carissa promised.

Rafael summoned someone to bring water so he could wash his face and change his undershirt. He still had time for a nap.

Jacob knew of Rafael’s return and had planned to question him about the case. However, he learned the prince was resting and would soon return to the Supreme Court. Jacob decided to wait and return with him.

As head archivist of a royal residence, Jacob wasn't a member of the Supreme Court, but he could advise the prince. With Carissa now holding an official position, the responsibility of managing Hell Monarch Estate would fall to Luke and Lily. Fortunately, Kyle had been assisting lately.

Rafael quickly fell asleep on the couch. Though not particularly tired, he knew a good rest would be a luxury before the case concluded. Trained on the battlefield to sleep at a moment's notice, his body relaxed instantly.

About an hour later, Rafael awoke to find Jacob waiting outside.

“Lily prepared snacks for you. Take them with you and eat if you get hungry,” Carissa said, helping her husband into his official attire.

“Okay.” Rafael rinsed his mouth before kissing her quickly. “I’m leaving now. I probably won’t be back for dinner tomorrow. Get some rest. Your audience with the king tomorrow is important.”

“Understood.” Carissa saw Rafael off from the garden, then noticed Jacob waiting with a lantern. “You two should hurry.”

Lulu handed over the snacks, bowing slightly. “Take care, Your Highness.”

Rafael accepted them and glanced back at Carissa before leaving with Jacob.

Carissa turned to Lulu. “You should sleep, too. I’ll be up early tomorrow. You don’t need to wake up for me; Sydney will be here.”

“It’s no trouble. Tomorrow is your first day. I want to be up early,” Lulu replied happily.

Carissa laughed. “Go to bed, silly girl.”

Before dawn the following day, Carissa rose. Lulu arrived, her eyes heavy-lidded. Sydney and Qiana, having retired earlier, prepared breakfast.

Chapter 733 (Bonus)

After Carissa washed, she donned her official uniform for the first time. She hadn’t tried it on when it arrived. While slightly loose, it fit well after she tightened the waistband.

Sydney helped Carissa style her hair and inspected her with a smile. “You look truly impressive, Your Grace. If we didn’t know better, we might think a handsome young man had just walked in.”

“How grand!” Lulu exclaimed excitedly. “My lady is the commander of the Mystic Army, overseeing tens of thousands of soldiers!”

Carissa playfully tapped Lulu’s nose. “Look at you, all giddy. Did you think I was incapable because I wasn’t a court official before?”

Lulu grinned. “Of course not! Who can deny your capabilities? You’re a princess consort—how could you not be? But being a princess consort is different. As long as the prince loves you, you can be a princess consort. But an official position requires real skill, and you have plenty!”

“Who are you talking about with ‘real skill’?” Violet quipped, entering with a smile.