Chapter 98: Speak Up for Justice
Everyone looked at each other, unsure how to respond. Prudence, always composed and mindful of her reputation, had organized this flower appreciation gathering specifically to address a delicate situation. Their attention shifted to Isolde, standing outside with Princess Bourbon. Doubt flickered in their eyes. Her appearance, so similar to Prunella, triggered memories of Doug’s past favoritism toward Prunella while disguised as a eunuch—a group often associated with biased actions. Suspicions arose regarding the nature of their teacher-disciple relationship.
Aveline gently shook her head, fearing Doug would no longer protect Isolde after this banquet. It wasn't his own reputation he worried about, but Isolde's; he cared deeply for her. Prudence, however, intended to cut off Isolde's support. By publicly raising this issue, Isolde, standing nearby, was silenced. As an unmarried woman, accusations of an affair would be devastating, providing ample fodder for gossip. Even a defense would likely be futile, only exacerbating the situation. Regardless of the truth, her prospects for marriage—perhaps even remaining in Argentum—would be severely damaged. Prudence knew how to strike effectively, without bloodshed, leaving Isolde in a precarious position and potentially ruining the Duke of Blackmoor's reputation in the process.
Aveline glanced at Isolde, wanting to signal her silence, knowing some things were inexplainable. But Isolde confidently stepped forward. “Grandma, who is spreading these rumors outside?”
Priscilla held Isolde’s hand, concerned. “Isolde, don't mind it. People outside are talking nonsense. Your grandmother will handle it.”
Martha snorted. “How dare you ask? If not for your improper behavior attracting attention, how could such rumors spread? Can’t you be more careful?”
Isolde replied coldly, “Why wouldn't I dare ask? Falsely accusing a royal court official is a serious crime. It wouldn't matter much if it were only me—a country girl from Windermount, my reputation already tarnished after being jilted. But Lord Doug is a high-ranking official, favored by the Queen Mother, and commands the Southern Watch. We cannot tolerate such baseless accusations. This matter must be thoroughly investigated until the truth is revealed.”
She turned and called, “Hazel, fetch Lord Schuman from the High Mayuracy of Brymum. Since my grandmother heard these rumors, someone must have told her. Start by questioning those around her, tracing the rumors to their source. We’ll determine if they target Lord Doug or the Southern Watch.”
The mention of the Southern Watch signaled escalation, causing unease. If true, the rumors were likely spread by Doug's enemies, aiming to damage his reputation and undermine the Southern Watch. The Southern Watch’s recent growth in power, with Doug, as a eunuch, holding more influence than many Royal Court officials—sometimes even the provincial secretariat—made this a significant threat. Anyone believing they could bring down the Southern Watch by taking down Doug was gravely mistaken. A thorough investigation would extend far beyond the rumors' source, potentially ensnaring numerous officials in today’s capital.
Prudence narrowed her eyes, speaking slowly, “Let this be clarified today and leave it at that. No need to escalate; otherwise, even those unaware will hear about it.”
Isolde suddenly interjected, “I have nothing to hide and fear no scrutiny. My concern is deliberate targeting of the Southern Watch and Lord Doug. My reputation pales in comparison to matters of state the Southern Watch serves. Allowing those with ulterior motives to spread rumors recklessly would hinder important affairs.”
“Shut up! Do not recklessly discuss state affairs!” Prudence snapped.
Isolde looked at her. “Grandma, this is not reckless. Please don’t worry. I appreciate your effort in gathering everyone, but what needs doing must be done. We cannot be lenient with those who harbor ill intentions.” She curtsied. “Ladies, you’ve heard rumors outside, correct? When the High Court of Parliament arrives, I ask for your testimony. Catching those spreading lies will facilitate charges!”
Several ladies quickly waved their hands. “We’ve never heard such things, this is our first time hearing it.”
“First time?” Priscilla paused. “But it's spreading outside, isn't it?”
The Marchioness of Greystone, previously silent, spoke coldly, “I have countless informants in the capital. I know matters concerning Lord Doug and the Southern Watch, and which nobleman called for which concubine last night. If such rumors circulated, wouldn't I know? Could someone in the Duke’s estate be jealous of Miss Langley's title and Lord Doug's protection? Perhaps they fabricated these rumors to slander her? Otherwise, why are the rumors confined to the Duke's estate?”
Her words carried weight. Everyone looked to Prudence.
Prudence's expression darkened. “What she said is reasonable. If it’s confined to the Duke’s estate, it’s malicious slander. I almost became a pawn.” Her expression grew darker. “Priscilla, investigate immediately and find who started this.”
Priscilla hesitated. “It was a servant from my eldest sister-in-law’s household.”
Matilda’s face paled. “Mom, I’ll go back and punish them!”
The understanding was immediate: jealousy from the stepmother of Isolde, fueled by Michelle’s divorce, likely an act of revenge.
Prudence looked at Matilda with a livid expression. “You can't even manage your own servants. I could cane you for such insulting words to your teacher. Tomorrow, bring those who talk too much to my house. I’ll personally supervise the punishment!”
“Yes!” Matilda glared at Priscilla, daring not to respond. She couldn’t offend Prudence; with no family, defying her meant homelessness.
Isolde smiled at Prudence. “Thankfully, you're wise and cleared this up!”
Prudence nodded gently. “It’s good the truth is out. I’ve been away in Caelmont for two years, and I didn’t expect this household to have lost its manners.” It was a clear criticism of Matilda’s management.
Matilda’s face paled, muttering an apology, unable to speak further. Margaret remained silently observant, indifferent. Aveline, unskilled in such disputes, smiled knowingly at Isolde’s victory. Isolde subtly nodded, her gaze drifting towards the Marchioness of Greystone.