Chapter 994

“I’ve considered that, but we’re not there yet. Let’s not worry about it now. If necessary, we can sell the embroidery elsewhere. The real issue is that we haven't even started,” Carissa said.

“True. I didn’t expect it to be so difficult. Do you think the women’s academy will be as hard?” Violet asked.

“No, demand will exceed supply,” Carissa replied.

Violet rested her chin in her hand. “Alright then. I’m in a bad mood, so tonight, my four apprentices will train harder.”

Carissa laughed. “Sage Violet, send out the notice. Your apprentices are eager to learn.”

Violet chuckled. “Kevin is the most diligent. He progresses quickly and is a great martial arts candidate. A mentor earlier would have greatly improved his skills, but he's still making progress.”

Later that evening, Carissa visited Silverstone Estate, while Violet, whip in hand, oversaw her apprentices’ intensified training.

After hearing Carissa’s request, Zoey readily agreed to help.

Carissa sighed in relief, her face brightening. “With your help, I can finally rest easy.”

“Life is hard for women. We should help when we can,” Zoey replied.

A deep sadness in her eyes, unseen during their last meeting (when Zoey was investigating at Valor Estate), troubled Carissa.

Carissa asked, “Madam Zoey, has something happened? If you’re comfortable, perhaps I can help.” She genuinely wanted to reciprocate Zoey’s past assistance.

Zoey smiled wryly and shook her head. “Just minor things, nothing requiring your help, Your Grace.”

Seeing Zoey’s reluctance, Carissa didn’t press. She started to leave, but a servant rushed in, announcing that Viola had angered Evelyn, causing her to faint.

Chapter 904

Zoey gritted her teeth, her face flushed with anger, but forced a smile. “Please don’t mind it, Your Grace.”

Carissa, unwilling to become involved with Viola, decided to leave.

As she reached the door, Zoey said, “Your Grace, may I ask something?”

Carissa stopped. “Of course, Madam Zoey.”

Hesitantly, Zoey asked, “Do you know why the Ministry of Justice is holding Barrett?”

Carissa was confused. “He’s being held? That’s impossible. He should have been released.”

The case was concluded. Aurora was gone, and Barrett’s implication was minor—a demotion and salary reduction. He should have left the Ministry long ago.

Zoey smiled wryly. “He’s still there. We inquired, and he’s refusing to leave. Something feels wrong. Who willingly stays locked up? That’s why I’m asking you, Your Grace.”

Carissa, unaware of this, explained, “His Majesty showed mercy, only demoting him and reducing his salary. He’s still deputy commander of the Nightsteel Guard.”

Zoey’s face darkened. She was relieved she hadn’t yet used her connections to secure his release, avoiding an embarrassing mistake.

Zoey, somewhat embarrassed, explained, “Viola has been pressuring my mother-in-law to get him released. I’m afraid she’s fainted from the upset.”

“I see,” Carissa said, nodding. “Then I’ll leave. You should check on your mother-in-law.”

Carissa, wishing to avoid further discussion and conserve Zoey’s time, departed.

Back at Hell Monarch Estate, Rafael had returned. A backlog of Supreme Court cases awaited approval due to ongoing negotiations.

Carissa, sharing a late-night snack with him, casually asked, “Is Barrett still at the Ministry of Justice, or is there another reason? I heard at Silverstone Estate that he hasn’t been released. Could His Majesty be planning something else?”

Since Barrett’s situation mirrored that of her third uncle, the implications for Victory Pass concerned her.

“He doesn’t want to leave. The Ministry can’t do much; they haven’t removed him from his post. He’s simply staying, and Mr. Lloyd will likely report to the king tomorrow,” Rafael replied indifferently.