After leaving the pce, Rafael made a quick stop at the estate to update Jacob, who had just fallen asleep, instructing him to wait until Carissa woke up before telling her the news.


    As soon as Jacob heard the news, he was wide awake. He had nned to ask Carissa to take him to see his sister once she was up, but now, he found himself pondering the implications of the king’s unexpected


    actions.


    Sleep was no longer an option.


    When Carissa finally got up and dressed, Jacob approached her directly.


    *His Highness returned just now and mentioned that the king ns to promote you to themander of the Mystic Army. You’ll oversee the Capital Guard, the Garrison Unit, the Royal Guard, and the Crown Guard. However, I haven’t quite grasped the <b>king’s </b>intention behind this move.


    Carissa could hardly believe it. “A real position with work and authority?”


    “Yes!”


    She was genuinely shocked. “There’s never been a precedent for a woman serving at court in our kingdom. Even when Aurora distinguished herself in battle, she was only assigned to a guard unit. And while I technically hold the title of deputymander, I’ve never been allowed to interfere with the Mystic Army’s affairs. It’s just a title for a bit of extra pay.”


    There was a world of difference between women fighting on the battlefield and serving at court.


    Carissa understood she wouldmand not only the Mystic Army but also the Capital Guard, the Garrison Unit, the Royal Guard, and the Crown Guard. Thetter was directly tied to the king. While they might feign respect, they would ultimately answer to her. This was a considerable amount of power.


    “I don’t know why His Majesty would do this, but I suspect the official appointment wille after the court session. By the way, His Highness mentioned that His Majesty would personally issue a royal edict,” Jacob added.


    Though Carissa found it strange, she realized she would ept the position if it truly materialized. While it was rare for women to serve at court during this era, precedents existed in previous ones.


    The status of women in this era was rather low, a fact the queen dowager oftenmented. So, when Aurora became a female general, Victoria was overjoyed and praised her openly.


    “Jacob, Raf has always been cautious, reserved, and yielding. The king sees this. He knows Raf is trying to maintain their brotherly bond as well as his loyalty as a subject. However, he also recognizes that Raf doesn’t have to be this submissive, even if he doesn’t rebel, Carissa said thoughtfully.


    Jacob sighed. “The <b>king </b>is suspicious, His Highness doesn’t want to create any rifts between them as brothers, as he’s thinking about the bigger picture. If he didn’t, the court would descend into chaos. His Majesty wants to rely on the <b>prince</b>, but he also fears him, which is why there’s such a contradiction. Ultimately, ites down to trust.”


    “So, Raf’s constant concessions only serve to cote His Majesty on the surface. They don’t actually solve anything. In that case, I think it’s better to take decisive action. Whether he doubts or fears us, it won’t change anything.” Carissa replied.


    Jacob’s Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    eyes sparkled with a hint of realization. “Is that also how you feel, Your Grace?”


    “<b>Have </b>you thought this way, Jacob?”


    “His Highness has mentioned something simr to me before, Jacob admitted. “He said since there’s only Lord Ryan to inherit the Duke of Northwatch’s title and estate, we must protect him and help him grow. So, sometimes, it’s better to avoid unnecessary trouble. Plus…”


    Jacob hesitated before continuing. “His Highness was worried you wouldn’t want to be dragged into the royal power struggles. He wanted to let you live a peaceful life. He believes you’ve endured too much unhappiness, and hopes for your future to be <b>calm </b>and steady.”


    Carissa was momentarily taken aback, realizing Rafael had considered both her and Ryan in his thoughts. Until now, she had only thought Rafael wanted to preserve his brotherly bond with Salvador or keep his household out of the king’s constant suspicion.


    A warm feeling surged within her. The thoughtfulness directed her way touched her deeply.


    Initially, Carissa often felt that the Hell Monarch’s household was somewhat pathetic. No matter what they did, they first had to consider how Salvador would perceive it. It was hard to do anything.


    Moreover, she had been preupied with her identity as the Hell Monarch’s princess consort. She was always mindful of her words and actions; so much so that she had nearly forgotten who she truly was. Carissa recalled saying that Barrett felt like a part of a past life. Wasn’t her time in Meadow Ridge the same? The vibrant and spirited Carissa of Meadow Ridge felt like a ghost now.


    Perhaps it was time to boldly pursue what she wanted in life. Life was too short to hold back.


    “Jacob, I’ll have Violet bring Jaina here. After you meet her, take her home to see your grandfather and mother.”


    Jacob’s eyes glistened with tears.


    The day he had waited for a long time had finally arrived.