Chapter 861

Viola habitually shirked responsibility, regardless of the severity of the situation. She consistently distanced herself, feigning helplessness or innocence. This time, however, she didn't refute Zoey's words, merely wiping away her persistent tears. Zoey sighed, looking at Viola.

Benjamin was a shadow of his former self—deprived of status and his wife, he remained confined to his room. Bryan, a disappointment in both martial arts and academics, offered no reliable support. Charlotte's family had abandoned them completely, even constructing a wall to divide Valor Estate.

Barrett alone remained capable and resourceful. Beyond his specialized training, he continued to care for Viola. As the head of the household, he assessed their dire financial straits; they were truly impoverished.

Four hours later, Tara breathlessly arrived, having rushed from outside the estate, delivering two hundred silver coins to Zoey.

Zoey had learned from Poppy that Amelia had initially refused Rebecca's plea to pawn her jewelry, even scolding her. Amelia's illness and need for medication had finally compelled her to comply.

Zoey, though willing to attempt a purchase, anticipated its futility. She took Tara, veiled, as a witness.

Upon reaching Arcane Sanctum, Zoey requested Snowdrop Pills. A physician inquired, "Which household member suffers from a heart ailment? Snowdrop Pills require a diagnosis from our head physician, Sebastian, before prescription. Please wait while I fetch him to accompany you to Silverstone Estate."

"So, it's that complicated? If it's not a heart condition, I can't buy them?" Zoey asked.

"Correct. Supply is limited; we ensure they reach those in genuine need," the physician explained.

Zoey nodded. "I'll return tomorrow."

After thanking the assistant, Zoey and Tara left. The assistant, Paul, rushed after them. "Madam Zoey, I know you seek Snowdrop Pills for the Warren matriarch—It's possible, but only if Madam Amelia comes herself," he said, feigning ignorance of Amelia's suicide. "If the Warren family wishes to purchase, Madam Amelia must come in person."

Tara's hand trembled; tears streamed down her face.

Chapter 51

"Thank you," Zoey said, entering the carriage. Tara followed, her heart heavy.

Returning to Valor Estate, Tara relayed Arcane Sanctum's message: Amelia must purchase the medicine personally; otherwise, they needed a heart patient requiring Snowdrop Pills.

While heart patients existed in the capital, few would assist a cruel mother-in-law who had driven her daughter-in-law to suicide. Involvement risked similar public scorn.

The Warren family faced intense criticism. Even the Hell Monarch's proposal for an embroidery workshop for outcast women couldn't quell the public anger.

While men primarily criticized the Hell Monarch, the outrage against Valor Estate and Rebecca was a national phenomenon, far exceeding the former. Debate surrounded the Hell Monarch's actions, but the Warren family and Rebecca faced unrestrained, virulent curses.

The situation worsened when news broke that Rebecca needed Snowdrop Pills, yet Arcane Sanctum would only sell them to Amelia. The townsfolk erupted in discussions of karma. Overhearing servants, fearing Rebecca's wrath, remained silent and departed.

After Tara's report, Rebecca remained silent. Zoey wondered if regret surfaced, suspecting it did; such a person only understood regret when their own life was threatened.

Regret, unfortunately, was utterly useless, arriving too late to effect change.

Zoey, despite offering support at Valor Estate—primarily caring for Viola—remained a cold observer. She wasn't compassionate, only acting according to her conscience.

She could obtain Snowdrop Pills through Carissa, but doing so would ensure Amelia's unforgiveness, even in death.