Carissa paid a visit to Jeanette.
Though the concubine did not explicitly say that Sylvia was responsible for the loss of her child, she did remark, "Those who commit wicked deeds will always face retribution. No one can escape it."
The words seemed not only directed at Sylvia, but also at Kylie.
As Carissa prepared to leave after questioning her, Jeanette suddenly spoke up, asking, "Your Grace, was it truly impossible to save Prince Connor?"
Carissa assumed Jeanette's words were born of sympathy for Connor. But when she glanced at the concubine, she saw no trace of sorrow in her eyes, only a subtle glint of something resembling satisfaction.
It was an emotion she clearly tried to conceal but could not, as though Jeanette had achieved a long-sought revenge. Carissa chose not to respond, instead turning on her heel to leave.
Kylie had caused Jeanette's loss, so it was no surprise that she wouldn't wish for Connor's recovery.
Carissa couldn't fault Jeanette for her feelings. How could she, when she had not endured the same pain? It was not her place to admonish.
Though Carissa had planned to visit Laurel Palace, she changed her mind and decided to stop by Iridescent Palace first.
She had originally thought to delay this visit, for she had heard that Caden had been deeply distressed. The shock and grief had caused him to lose his senses, leaving him in a troubled state.
So, when she went, her intention was not to speak with Caden, but rather with Grace.
The evidence clearly absolved Grace of any involvement in these matters. Neither Jeanette's loss nor Connor's plight could be directly or indirectly linked to her. However, there was one thing that continued to trouble Carissa—the rumors that had circulated in the harem.
The first rumor suggested Sylvia had been responsible for the loss of Jeanette's child, while the second implicated Kylie in the same act.
Both rumors had stirred a great deal of gossip within the harem, and it was the latter that had sparked the queen's wild outburst at Laurel Palace. It was then that everyone in the harem had learned of the bitter rift between Kylie and Sylvia.
At present, the prevailing speculation was that Kylie's outburst had provoked Sylvia's vengeful wrath, ultimately resulting in Connor's injury.
Carissa gazed at Grace's reddened eyes. Her tears were genuine, and the sorrow in her expression was unmistakable.
"I hear Prince Caden was greatly frightened. Is he any better now?" Carissa asked.
Grace shook her head and sighed deeply. "He is much the same—lost in his thoughts, unwilling to respond or even acknowledge anyone. I haven't dared to tell him about Prince Connor's death yet, for fear he would be unable to bear it."
From Ryan, Carissa had learned that Caden's bond with Connor had grown significantly stronger since they began studying together and practicing martial arts as a group. Whenever Caden had a special treat, he would think to share it with his elder brother. Likewise, Connor would always care for Caden, bringing him small tokens of amusement.
After Connor fell from his horse and was trampled, the scene was gruesome. Having witnessed it firsthand, it was natural for Caden to be terrified, but no one had expected it to affect him this badly.
Grace sighed again. "I know you have come to investigate at His Majesty's behest, but might I ask you to refrain from questioning him for now? I am truly concerned that he will not be able to endure it."
"You misunderstand, Lady Grace. I am not here to question Prince Caden. There is a matter I wish to discuss with you," Carissa replied.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Her Graceful War Song
What happens to the other chapters, I've been waiting to read more of this story, the character's and the screening are fantastic, very intriguing story...
Next chapter please, what's happening...
Very captivating novel....
Both content and context are very intriguing, the writer style of pulling out characters in their unique ways are profound,I have recommended this book because it's very captivating...