He wanted to say more, but the words wouldn't come.

The Mystic Army's defensive measures transformed the capital into a place of unease and tension. A curfew stifled many businesses in the entertainment districts. Coffeehouses and taverns closed at sunset, leaving the city eerily lifeless by night. The strategy was simple: if the enemy didn't move, neither would they.

The riverworks project continued uninterrupted. As long as the work proceeded without unnecessary delays, the Mystic Army would remain on standby, ready to mobilize at any moment. Carissa knew this was the only way to gain an advantage. Uninterrupted work benefited both the court and the people.

Though no open battle had occurred, tension hung heavy in the air, a palpable scent of war pervading the city. The city gates were under constant surveillance. It was unlikely the true mastermind behind the rebellion would remain far from the capital. His life and wealth were at stake; how could he command remotely?

Carissa suspected the mastermind had already returned. However, Violet, at Willowbrook Estate, had seen nothing unusual. Hayden's only companions were two elderly servants; the others were occupied with various tasks. Those who left to buy supplies were closely watched by Bun and had no outside contact.

It was, to say the least, a headache. Carissa needed a moment to breathe.

The Prince family had been punished: all the men exiled, Cedric included. Exile to the Southern Frontier wasn't so bad; they would have some protection there.

Zoey, Viola, and Evelyn couldn't afford a large estate. Though Zoey had left money with Isaac, the current situation forced them to reside at Skye Embroidery. Carissa had initially feared Viola's protest at such humble conditions, given her past airs. But Astral Prison's harsh reality softened even the sharpest edges. Viola said nothing, silently accepting her fate.

Carissa planned to settle Courtney at Hell Monarch Estate with Roxana. Roxana, a martial arts prodigy, and Courtney, a sharp, intelligent girl, could easily become friends—one a scholar, the other a warrior.

Courtney, demoted to commoner but not enslaved, could still return to Gracewood Women's Academy; commoner women could attend if they wished.

Regarding Luna's daughters and Oliver's concubines' daughters, Carissa asked their preference. They wished to remain at Skye Embroidery, learning embroidery from Camila. An education might not guarantee a livelihood, but a skilled hand ensured sustenance.

Carissa didn't press them. They were literate, and Zoey had always treated them kindly. Even Oliver's concubines respected a lady who showed such kindness to their children.

In the main hall, Carissa and Zoey spoke. The latter seemed much more at ease, her demeanor calm now that she knew her brother-in-law and son had been exiled to the Southern Frontier. Though the journey would be arduous, she found comfort in the knowledge that help would be available along the way and upon arrival. There was still hope, however difficult the path.

She wore a simple gown, looking refreshed, a stark contrast to her previous worn-out expression. She curtsied deeply, her voice thick with emotion: "If it weren't for you, Your Grace, I fear we would still be suffering in Astral Prison."

Carissa smiled gently. "Zoey, you flatter me. You're more than capable of managing a household. You'll be invaluable at the workshop, handling both internal and external matters. I'll be counting on you."

Zoey nodded solemnly. "I will do everything I can to manage the workshop. If no one wants to sell the embroidered goods, I will. I'm no longer afraid of the world."

"With you here, I can rest easy," Carissa said sincerely.

She meant it. Lately, she'd been frantic, and the workshop and women's academy had suffered.

Now, besides the Prince family members, over ten women lived at Skye Embroidery. Some, learning of refuge there, had left their marriages rather than endure further hardship.

The numbers were small, but Carissa was optimistic. Progress was progress; they had to take things one step at a time.

Viola was still recovering and hadn't met with Carissa. It might have been an excuse, as Rowan confirmed she was no longer in serious danger. Carissa suspected Viola didn't know how to face her, having once been her imagined rival. But Carissa wasn't bothered. She believed Viola's continued stubbornness would only make Kayla's next supply visit harder for her to bear.