Chapter 8:12

"My condolences," Carissa said softly.

"She passed away in my arms," Carmen choked out, her voice breaking. "She was coughing terribly and throwing up blood. In a way, her passing is a relief."

Carissa felt a pang of sorrow. "If you want to bury her on the mountain at Pearwater Convent, you don't need to ask the abbess. I can authorize it. King Sigmund granted that mountain to us after my father's meritorious service."

"Really? Thank you, Your Grace," Carmen replied, her gratitude evident.

Carissa nodded. "I'll send someone to assist you. Have you arranged for a coffin?"

"Yes," Carmen replied. "I purchased one. Ms. Spencer lent me some money, but I didn't use it. The Lester family is providing a coffin; I didn't initially agree, but couldn't refuse. They've already prepared my mother for burial, and we're just waiting for the funeral. I really don't want to owe them anything."

Carissa understood the Lester family's coldness. They likely feared implication. But now that Melanie had passed, their worries were irrelevant, hence their willingness to help with the funeral.

"If there's anything I can do to assist, please let me know. The Capital Guard will provide support," Carissa offered.

"There's one more thing," Carmen said. "I'm now completely alone, and there are many disabled people here at Pearwater Convent. I want to stay and care for them. I only ask for a place to sleep and three meals a day in exchange."

Carissa readily agreed. "Alright. Thank you for helping them."

"They're all suffering souls," Carmen said softly. "Fortunately, I've trained in martial arts, so I can handle the hard work."