Chapter 385: An Imperial Order

The memorial was long—ten full pages. The King read in silence, his expression shifting from initial shock to uncontrollable fury. But even as his rage persisted, a strange sense of stillness crept into his eyes. After a long pause, he finally asked, “Are there witnesses to support these claims?”

Peyton stepped forward. “Your Majesty, though sixteen years have passed, those who bore witness to these events are still alive. Geoffrey had already begun investigating after Isolde’s assassination attempt. The physician who treated Prunella, the midwife who delivered her child, and the servants who attended to her—they can all testify. Moreover, Matilda knows everything. If Your Majesty commands an inquiry, the truth will be revealed.”

The King’s gaze darkened. “If Geoffrey had investigated this, why was it never reported? This is murder—did Garrett know?”

“Your Majesty, accusing one’s own mother is not only a disgrace but also an act of unfilial defiance. Had Garrett spoken against Prudence, it would have shamed him. For years, Prudence deceived him. If she hadn’t attempted to assassinate Isolde, Geoffrey might never have uncovered the truth.”

The King recalled the last time Geoffrey had appeared before him, dressed in a penitential robe, confessing his sins. He had spoken of how, after Prunella’s death, he had married Matilda, only to later realize that none of Matilda’s children were his own. All of it—every deception—had been orchestrated by Prudence. What kind of monstrous stepmother could commit such vile acts?

Peyton continued, “Your Majesty, Isolde’s defiance was, in truth, the greatest act of filial piety. She knew that Prudence was her mother’s murderer, the one who had tried to have her killed. With her abilities, she could have easily arranged for Prudence to die under ‘unfortunate circumstances,’ but she did not. Prudence’s death was fate catching up to her. Isolde refused to mourn her because she could not kneel before the woman who had murdered her mother. Many of us suspected something was amiss, even Arthur. Yet, despite knowing some of the truth, he still submitted that memorial accusing her. It is baffling.”

Now, the King understood why the Queen Mother had spoken those words to him. Secrets like these could never stay buried forever. The noble houses might not report their family matters to him, but Thelma had ears everywhere. She must have long known of Prudence’s crimes.

The King’s voice was sharp as steel. “Summon all relevant individuals for interrogation. Hand the case over to the Ministry of Justice for immediate trial. I want a full report on my desk by morning.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Heath bowed before swiftly departing to carry out the command.

The King then turned to Clark, whose eyes were swollen from grief. His voice softened slightly, “Go home and see to your father’s funeral. If the investigation confirms Geoffrey’s claims, I will release your sister.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Clark bowed and left.

Once he was gone, Peyton exhaled, his voice thick with sorrow and resentment. “Geoffrey was once a man of unparalleled valor. Had he not lost his wife, would he have fallen so completely? Prudence may have seemed like just another scheming matron embroiled in household conflicts, but in truth, she cost the Eryndral Empire one of its finest generals. And now, if this injustice is not rectified, we risk losing Isolde as well—and even Oliver. But Arthur… Arthur is no foolish housewife squabbling over petty grievances. Why…”

Thelma favored Isolde. If he had Isolde executed, Thelma would never forgive him, even if she did not voice her displeasure outright. And then there was Zloimond—Oliver and Isolde had been instrumental in securing victory. Why, after such an achievement, were they suddenly being targeted?

The King’s thoughts darkened. “Peyton, Arthur is Pablo’s son-in-law and Isolde’s relative. Why would he denounce her? Is there an old grudge between them?”

“I am not certain, but I have heard that Arthur has had repeated disputes with the Valen family over his sister’s affairs.”

“His sister?”

“Yes, Cristina. She was once engaged to Oliver. But after seeing Johnathan, she became infatuated with him instead. She broke off her engagement of her own accord, personally seeking out Oliver at Southern Watch to tear up their betrothal contract, spouting cruel words. At the time, Oliver had no great accomplishments, and Arthur did nothing to stop his sister’s reckless behavior. Cristina then obsessed over Johnathan, spread rumors about Rosemary, and even caused a scandal during Isolde’s proxy wedding to Oliver. Eventually, she ended up as William’s concubine. It was a mess. I do not know all the details, but if Your Majesty wishes, you could summon Rosemary to learn more.”

“I had heard of the broken engagement,” the King mused, “but I did not know Cristina herself had sought Oliver out. How could Arthur have allowed this?”

Peyton offered a bitter smile. “Your Majesty, Oliver was merely an orphan taken in by the Valen family. No one truly respected him. General Douglas has been dead for years. Who still remembers his contributions to the Eryndral Empire? Who cares for his only surviving child! Arthur is a rising star in the court, married to Pablo’s daughter, climbing the ranks without obstruction. Why would he bother concerning himself with Oliver?”

“Is that so?” The King’s voice turned cold. “Climbing the ranks without obstruction?”

Peyton knew he had said enough and changed the subject. “Your Majesty, the Langley family is now without leadership. May I request the honor of arranging Geoffrey’s funeral? It is the least I can do for an old friend.”

The King’s face darkened with sorrow. “I still remember the first time I met Geoffrey. He was brimming with ambition. It was during the victory banquet for Callum’s campaign. Callum had asked the gathered warriors to share their aspirations. Many spoke of honor, of glory, of conquest. But Geoffrey’s words were different. He said, ‘I am of the Eryndral Empire. I serve the Eryndral Empire. My soul belongs to the Eryndral Empire.’ I remember thinking then—this man would be a great general one day.”

Tears streamed down Peyton’s face. He whispered, voice trembling, “Your Majesty, he was a man of singular devotion. He loved the Eryndral Empire. He loved a woman. And in the end… he lost them both.”

The King was silent for a long time. Finally, he asked, “Has Garrett learned of Isolde’s imprisonment?”

“He likely does not know; Garrett and Natasha have left Argentum.”

“That explains why he has not come to plead her case,” the King muttered. Then, with a flick of his wrist, he dismissed Peyton. “Go. Tomorrow’s court session will decide everything.”

“Your Majesty.” Peyton bowed deeply before taking his leave.

Instead, he rode to the Sharp family. Garrett and Natasha were absent, but Geoffrey’s death had to be reported to the Sharp household. When they received the news, silence fell over the entire estate. Patricia and Christine wiped away their tears. The sound of quiet weeping filled the room. Patricia finally spoke, her voice choked. “How will Isolde bear this? How did it come to this?”