Chapter 797
The relentless torture during Henry's interrogation yielded surprising results. The spineless man unexpectedly found his courage, insisting he knew nothing and was merely a pawn in others' game. As the pain intensified, he cried out, "I've suffered greatly! Eleanor has wronged me most. My women, my children—they've been killed or sent away because of her. She's truly insane! But now she's been caught, and I can finally free myself from her grasp!"
Anthony Klein, the Royal Citadel's governor, personally oversaw the interrogation. Their methods, harsher than the Supreme Court's, failed to break Henry's resolve.
The case was presented during the morning court session, and all officials listened intently. Unlike the previous anxiety, a calmer atmosphere settled over the court.
Even Yuvan, absent from the court, knew Eleanor and Henry hadn't implicated anyone. Servants reported Yuvan and Harvey visiting Harmony Palace, along with other princes, including a single visit from Hayden. However, this lacked evidentiary weight without proof of conspiracy. Sibling visits were commonplace. Furthermore, Yuvan only visited Harmony Palace once after returning to the capital, effectively eliminating him from suspicion.
The case reached a temporary standstill. Salvador issued an edict during the morning session, placing Eleanor under house arrest at the Heritage Bureau, with the Capital Guard responsible for her transfer. The Supreme Court would continue investigating the treason, leaving the case open until the masterminds were identified.
To provide some measure of justice for the victimized women, Henry received a death sentence. The Marquis of Grovehill's family, deemed accomplices, were stripped of their titles and reduced to commoners. However, their family estate remained unconfiscated. While the wealth accumulated through Eleanor was not seized, they were ordered to pay 100,000 silver coins for the women's care. The concubines could return home, but their daughters would remain in the convent, their expenses covered by the Kingsley family. The Royal Management Department would provide further support after the case concluded, using assets confiscated from Eleanor.
The case's initial resolution left much work remaining. The Royal Citadel and Capital Guard needed to collaborate with the Supreme Court to conclude the investigation. Thorough investigation of Harmony Palace personnel was required, ensuring just punishment or exile for those deserving, all within the confines of the law. This seemingly simple matter could occupy the Supreme Court for seven or eight nights.
The following day, Eleanor's transfer to the Heritage Bureau was scheduled, with Carissa overseeing the escort.
"Send reinforcements, in case of a rescue attempt or assassination," Rafael advised.
"An assassination might force Eleanor to talk," Carissa replied.
Rafael shook his head. "He's not that foolish. A rescue attempt would be a better cover for assassination. A long-range shot is too risky. Failure exposes him. He knows Eleanor too well. She might protect him, but never forgive betrayal."
"True," Carissa agreed.
"But such an opportunity? He wouldn't miss it. Skilled fighters might stage a rescue while attempting to kill her."
Hands on hips, Carissa sighed, her recent workload making her feel noticeably thinner.
"He has loyal suicide soldiers. They were involved in the Valor Estate attempt, but he won't bring them all to the capital. This is a gamble; he won't mobilize many. Those soldiers are his capital safety net," she explained.
"Should I accompany you?" Rafael asked.
Carissa chuckled. "Unnecessary. The Capital Guard isn't just for show, right?"
Playfully raising a fist, she grinned. "And besides, I'm here!"