When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 1052 Thanks to Carissa's efforts, the SuprCourt had its hands full. She was everywhere, personally bringing meals to Rafael, making sure he was well taken care of-comfortable in every way possible.

The evidence had already been collected, but the SuprCourt needed to verify it. Then, they would arrest the culprits for questioning. This was a task Rafael technically didn't need to bother with, but each of these criminals had powerful backers. Rather than risk Carissa offending anyone, it was better for him to be the one to handle it. Let the noble families be angry with him.

The one most pleased by this turn of events was Max. Lately, he had been training with renewed vigor; he was confident that once the Garrison Unit was properly purged, it would beca solid shield protecting the capital.

Alas, his joy was premature.

After the SuprCourt's thorough investigation began, petitions flooded in, with many suggesting that the Garrison Unit's duties overlapped too much with the Capital Guard's. They called for the disbandment of the Garrison Unit.

The claim had merit, and Carissa submitted a formal request to redefine and separate the roles of the Garrison Unit and the Capital Guard.

Salvador did not give a ruling in the court that day, but summoned Carissa to the royal study afterward.

"Yesterday, I visited the queen dowager," he began, settling into his seat. "She asked about the women's academy. How are you progressing with that?" "Your Majesty, the repairs to the academy building have been completed. We've already acquired desks, chairs, and all the necessary supplies. We are currently looking for a teacher," Carissa answered.

"The queen dowager takes the women's academy seriously, so focus on that for now. As for the Garrison Unit issue, leave it for now." Acknowledging his command, she responded dutifully, "Yes, Your Majesty.” Carissa wasn't surprised by his words. During the court meeting, she knew the matter was unlikely to succeed when the king didn't approve her request. She guessed that Salvador likely really wanted to disband the Garrison Unit. Spersonnel would then be reassigned to the Capital Guard, while the rest would be sent to the Nightsteel Guard or dismissed entirely.

Seeing her obedient response, Salvador felt a rare sense of relief, At least she wasn't like Rafael, who had becquite a troublemaker. Salvador could tolerate him for now, but 1/3 Chapter 1052 when the tcame, he would enjoy correcting the man's arrogance.

+25 BONUS His expression softened as he said, "The queen dowager misses chance, go visit her." you, When you have the Carissa nodded. "Of course, Your Majesty, I will visit the queen dowager with my mother-in-law on my next day off." Salvador gave a slight nod, his gaze drifting over Carissa once more. Though she wore her formal attire, the elegance of her features was still evident. A fleeting memory of a past thought stirred in him, but he quickly suppressed it.

As king, certain things were simply beyond his reach.

"Alright. You're dismissed,” he said, dismissing the thought with a wave of his hand.

"I will take my leave, Your Majesty," Carissa bowed, then turned to leave.

As she walked out of the royal study, Barrett stopped her at the end of the corridor.

"Carissa," he called, his voice carrying with a touch of urgency.

Carissa stepped back, raising her eyes to meet his. She noticed the eyes of several people upon them and felt the weight of their scrutiny. She furrowed her brow slightly, her expression distant.

"Is there something you need, Deputy Commander Warren?" Barrett studied her for a moment, then said in a low voice, "There's something I wish to warn you about, Commander Sinclair. His Majesty knows you're behind the Garrison Unit's plans, and he has his own arrangements for it. I suggest you focus on your duties and avoid upsetting His Majesty. If you're not careful, it might be you who suffers the consequences." Carissa's expression remained unchanged, her gaze steady and unflinching.

"Thank you for the advice, Deputy Commander Warren," she replied calmly.

Barrett blinked, somewhat surprised by her lack of reaction. “You knew about it already?" "I would never presto guess His Majesty's intentions. If that's all, I must take my leave." She stepped around him, preparing to walk away. 1

Barrett called after her, his voice tinged with frustration. "There's no need to distance yourself like this: I'm only offering sfriendly advice with no ulterior motives." Carissa didn't answer, continuing on her way.

Barrett paused, then quickly moved to block her path.

Carissa stopped, clearly annoyed now, her eyes lifting to meet his once more. "If you have something to say, say it directly. There's no need to hide behind false concern." 2/3 +25 BONUS Chapter 1052 Barrett hesitated; he opened his mouth, but then paused, his words coming out haltingly.

"I... I was wondering if you know how Westhaven intends to deal with m Aurora. Could you... Could you tell me?" Carissa glanced at him with a cool, dispassionate look.

"I don't know," she answered flatly, then turned on her heel, walking away with purposeful strides.

Barrett lowered his gaze. He didn't try to follow her this time.