Chapter 790

As Carissa stepped from the royal study, she was intercepted by Lydia, the queen's head maid, who smiled and curtsied.

"Your Grace, it's been a while since we last met," Lydia said.

Carissa returned the smile. "It has. What brings you here, Lydia?"

"Oh, nothing urgent. Her Majesty mentioned she hasn't seen you in some time and would like to invite you to Everspring Palace for tea."

Carissa's throat was parched, and she felt a pang of thirst. However, she knew an invitation from the queen rarely held good intentions. Could she decline? Seeing the determined look on Lydia's face, she realized refusal wasn't an option.

"Alright, then. Please lead the way."

"Of course, Your Grace," Lydia replied cheerfully, and set off.

The walk from the royal study to Everspring Palace was a trek, but the pleasant weather and gentle breeze eased some of the oppressive atmosphere from the study. As she walked, the tension slowly left Carissa's body. Dealing with the queen, even though Kylie wasn't friendly, was far more manageable than facing Salvador's intimidating presence.

Upon arriving at Everspring Palace, Lydia guided Carissa inside. As they entered, Carissa spotted a luxuriously dressed man rising to pay his respects. She recognized him immediately: Lionel, the queen's brother, a third-rank Councilor, and a trusted minister of Salvador since his ascension to the throne.

Carissa bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Your Majesty."

"Rise," Kylie said, her voice calm and distant as she sat regally on the throne.

Lionel greeted respectfully, "Commander Sinclair."

Carissa returned the greeting. "Lord Lionel."

"Please be seated," Kylie instructed.

Carissa thanked her and sat on the left side of the room, while Lionel settled opposite.

Once seated, Lionel said without preamble, "I have something to ask you, Commander Sinclair. Please answer truthfully."

"Your Majesty, may I have a glass of water?" Carissa requested, feeling thirsty.

"Serve refreshments!" Kylie commanded.

As they waited, Carissa asked, "What is it you wish to ask, Lord Lionel?"

He hesitated, a flicker of discomfort crossing his face as he broached the subject. Ultimately, he endured the inner humiliation and looked directly at Carissa.

"Today, Prince Rafael came to our residence and said that my father has been keeping a mistress. She's reportedly a concubine's daughter from Eleanor's household. You discovered this, didn't you, Commander Sinclair? Where did you get this information?"

Carissa was taken aback. She had discussed this with Rafael the night before, agreeing to speak with Malcolm privately. Why had it been spread to other family members? Rafael was tactful; he would have respected Malcolm's position. Unlike others who took women from Eleanor's household as concubines, Malcolm kept his mistress outside the home. Announcing the matter openly was inappropriate.

Instead of answering, Carissa asked, "Are you saying His Highness mentioned this in front of everyone today?"

Lionel's expression grew frantic. "Yes! Just tell me how you heard of this. Who told you?" Although Carissa couldn't understand how a private matter had become common knowledge among the Quinton family, she replied, "We investigated the matter ourselves. We didn't hear it from anyone."

Lionel became agitated. "Investigated? How?"

Carissa maintained her composure. "I don't think it's necessary to explain our investigation to you, Lord Lionel. His Majesty is aware; that's what matters."

"But what evidence do you have? If you can't provide evidence or explain your investigation, I won't believe you."

"You won't believe me?" Carissa raised an eyebrow, confused. Had Malcolm denied Rafael's words?

"Did Lord Malcolm deny it?" she asked directly.

Lionel shook his head. "My father doesn't know yet. He left early this morning."

"So, he didn't meet His Highness?" Carissa questioned.

Lionel nodded.

Carissa suddenly understood how the other Quintons learned about it. Since Malcolm left after being informed of their visit last night, Rafael likely waited at the residence, grew impatient, and, remembering Carissa's wait outside Oakspire Estate yesterday, left without much explanation.