Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Such a large-scale search naturally caught Helen's attention. She had gone to bed early and was fast asleep when the commotion outside woke her. Gillian, who was sleeping in the same room, was asked to check what was happening. When Helen heard that a servant had stolen Violet's Mystic Pearl earrings, her anger flared.

"Our household provides a much better life than other estates. The person who stole the earrings doesn't appreciate that. If I catch them, I'll have their arms broken!" Helen exclaimed.

"Lady Carissa has arrived," someone announced from outside.

"Why is she here instead of handling things outside? I'm already in bed," said Helen, reluctant to leave her warm bed amidst the cold night air.

"Mother." Carissa strode in confidently, alone.

She knew that the Mystic Pearl earrings would be found in Janice's quarters. Since Janice originally served under Helen, she should decide how to deal with her once the earrings were found.

Helen's displeasure evaporated the moment she saw Carissa, and a warm, inviting smile pulled at her lips. "What brings you here? It's a chilly night, and you didn't even put on extra layers. Come, have a seat."

Carissa nodded respectfully. She was aware her mother-in-law preferred to stay in bed, so she settled on the edge of it.

"I'm sorry to have disturbed you so late, Mother. It's my fault for not managing the household more strictly."

"Oh, it's not a big deal. It's just that it's quite the fuss at this hour. Why not search tomorrow instead?" Helen asked as she yawned.

thief could easily dispose of the earrings. They're worth quite a bit of money,"

glancing calmly at Gillian as if asking the latter to continue

Carissa instructed. "It's late, and we can't hold out without a cup. I

for me. If I drink it at this hour, I won't be able to sleep

the thief, you can reprimand them. Your status alone would be enough

the implications

daughter-in-law's words. While

Helen's status was indeed

had never really involved

few words

enough to

anyone.

in the middle of the night, let alone for her to be expected to intimidate anyone. Clearly, Carissa already

room. "Who among you took it? Return it now while Carissa is still here, and I

ones serving

made such a fuss by coming to her room in the middle of the night, it had to be someone close to her, not just any random servant