Her Graceful War Song

Carissa sighed in relief. She had been worried that if she mentioned wanting to hit Viola, Leah and Alana might start a fight if they encountered something displeasing at Gracehold Estate. She believed the two young women would understand the limits.

Carissa found Viola's behavior quite baffling. To be honest, she hadn't wronged Viola much. So why the intense hatred?

However, after a bit of thought, she realized it was probably because Rebecca had spoken ill of her in front of Viola. It seemed that Rebecca harbored a deep resentment toward her marriage into the royal family.

Yet, Viola had once been a wife in the Farrell family. With such an open-minded and far-sighted man like her late husband, Thomas, why had she learned nothing from him?

Upon arriving at Gracehold Estate, Abigail hurried to welcome them into the sitting room. She felt a bit anxious, especially since Samuel had caused a scene at Hell Monarch Estate a few days ago. She was worried someone from Rafael's household might come to seek retribution.

After waiting for a few days without anyone coming to pay them a visit, she was suddenly alarmed when informed that the Hell Monarch's princess consort had arrived. Her heart jumped to her throat.Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

Her concern was that while her son's career seemed bright, there were rumors that the Oversight Department was preparing to bring charges against him. If the people from Rafael's household also came to demand justice, the Oversight Department might use this as an opportunity to flood the court with accusations against Samuel.

The Oversight Department was known for acting quickly on such matters. But this time, despite several days of deliberation, they hadn't yet submitted their formal complaint. The delay had made Abigail increasingly anxious.

Abigail felt uneasy, and began with an apology, "A few days ago, my son acted thoughtlessly and caused a disturbance at the royal residence. I am here to apologize on his behalf. Please don't take his behavior to heart."

This time, Carissa's attitude was less forgiving than before.

"Your son is well-educated and comes from a noble family. He even achieved the honor of being one of the top scholars through the national examination. However, his youth and success have led him to be arrogant and dismissive of others, which will surely lead to trouble and ruin his future."

Abigail's expression stiffened. "Yes, Your Grace. Your words are very true."

"Honest advice is often unpleasant to hear," Carissa said, recognizing that Abigail might not appreciate her words. "I will not say much more, but the fact that your son dared to make a scene at Hell Monarch Estate shows that he never held the duchess in high regard. Now that she is pregnant with your family's heir, I hope you will pay her more attention and care."

"Of course," Abigail hurriedly replied.

"Today, I have brought two people who know a bit about medicine. They will be responsible for Leona's diet and herbal remedies from now on. Once Leona safely gives birth will take them away. They will not receive a monthly stipend from your household-I will cover their expenses myself. This is my small gesture of goodwill towards my

cousin. I trust you will not refuse."

Abigail understood that Carissa was genuinely concerned for Leona's wellbeing. If the people Carissa sent were knowledgeable about medicine, they could help avoid some of the dirty tricks that might be used behind closed doors.

Now that her son had achieved

success, there were many things she, as his mother, could not say. Samuel'arrogance had grown, and

there

was no telling him otherwise. Having people sent by Carissa to look after Leona was indeed a good

thing.

"In that case, you shouldn't have to cover their monthly stipend, Your Grace. Since they are serving Leona, it is only right that our family bear the expense," Abigail said.

Carissa shook her head. "There is no need for that. They're not servants, but were specifically hired by me. Naturally, I will provide their salaries."

The statement was meant to inform Abigail not to treat them as mere servants. By not receiving a stipend from the Earl of Gracehold's family, Leah and Alana wouldn't be subject to their household's arrangements.

Abigail understood the underlying message and said, "Then, we shall proceed as you have instructed, Your Grace. I am most grateful."

After some more discussion, Carissa still didn't see Leona, so she asked, "Why hasn't Leona come out yet?"

Abigail quickly ordered, "Check on Leona again. Tell her to hurry."

"No need for that. She's pregnant, so let her avoid unnecessary movement. Please lead me to see her," Carissa said.

Knowing that the two cousins likely had matters to discuss privately, Abigail instructed a maid to guide them to Leona.