Chapter 771
Giles, the head steward of Ironridge Estate, entered the room, nodding respectfully. He explained, “Madam Emma, there’s no need to worry. Grand Princess Eleanor’s treason has essentially been established. The Supreme Court’s investigation is merely to uncover her accomplices. Even if they find none, the Supreme Court will proceed. Since the Marquis of Ironridge’s household and Grand Princess Eleanor’s are connected by marriage, some fallout is inevitable.
“However, Lady Carissa only summoned the Marquis and Lady Jessica for questioning today, clearly indicating she doesn’t intend to escalate matters. Otherwise, those close to Lady Jessica would have been called in as well.”
Emma sighed. “I don’t understand. Grand Princess Eleanor holds such a high position. Why would she resort to treason? And what about the concubines in her household? I’ve heard there were over a hundred, and most are dead, with no male infants surviving. How can a person be so cruel?”
Given the circumstances, Jessica’s infertility wasn’t surprising. Emma considered mentioning this, but the thought was too harsh. Still, it lingered. The consequences of one’s actions always return.
Margaret felt a chill. “Giles, summon those who served Lady Jessica and ask about any abuse,” she said.
Giles hesitated, but Margaret’s serious expression prompted him to reply, “Most of her maids are gone. Rumor has it they were sold, but I fear their fates were worse.”
“Investigate further,” Margaret commanded. “We neglected her affairs, unaware of her cruelty. Whether sold or killed, someone knows what happened.”
Emma, ever dutiful, understood her mother-in-law’s thoughts. This investigation signaled Margaret’s consideration of a divorce and Jessica’s expulsion. “Ask Lady Serena,” Emma added calmly. “She’s always been close to Lady Jessica and should know much.”
The questioning’s results clearly implicated the Marquis of Ironridge’s household. Public condemnation would surely follow, and the mistreated servants, those sold off, might go public with their grievances. A thorough investigation and compensation for victims were necessary.
Margaret struck the armrest. “My health is failing, and I’m already struggling with household matters. I thought Jessica wouldn’t dare act recklessly, but her malice is profound. I’ve been far too complacent.”
Giles replied, “Madam Margaret, let’s find those sold off and bring them back. We’ll compensate those she wronged.”
“Giles is right, Mother,” Emma said. “Don’t blame yourself. Mothers-in-law often refrain from interfering in their daughters-in-law’s treatment of servants, especially when contracts aren't under the family. You shouldn't bear this burden.”
Margaret sighed. “You think you know a person, but you never truly understand their heart. The malice in Grand Princess Eleanor’s household is horrifying. What we know is likely just the tip of the iceberg. This scandal could severely damage the royal family’s reputation.”
In the main hall, Carissa concluded the questioning.
Leopold was stunned. He’d always known Jessica to be domineering and unruly, but never suspected such viciousness. She justified her actions, claiming she only beat a few pets belonging to her mother’s household, questioning the need for such an inquisition. Human life was insignificant to her.
Furthermore, Jessica secretly ran businesses in gold and silk, keeping only a small portion of the profits. The rest went to Eleanor, who used it to buy weapons. If this reached the king, Leopold and his family would be implicated.