The Swordswoman's Revenge Story after Rebirth

Chapter 44 Doug

69

+8 Pearls

Tyler proceeded to interrogate the remaining witnesses, and their testimonies aligned perfectly with Estella’s account.

Several noble ladies, who had been seated in the pavilion, confirmed hearing the argument, and their recollections matched Estella’s version word for word. Additionally, estate workers attested that a dispute over selling the manor had already erupted between the parties the night before–an unresolved grudge simmering beneath the surface.

Lord Harmon soon returned from gathering evidence. The traces left by the reservoir’s edge corroborated the statements–both Eleanor and Michelle had been pushed into the water.

With both witness accounts and physical evidence pointing to a clear conclusion, Tyler nevertheless turned to Isolde and asked, “County Princess, do you have anything to say in your defense?”

Isolde rose to her feet, sweeping her gaze over the assembled witnesses. Her expression remained impassive. as she declared. “They are all lying. Eleanor jumped into the water herself–her aim was to frame me. “As for Michelle and me falling in. I was trying to save Eleanor. But in my panic, I forgot that I can’t swim. I thrashed about and, in my struggle, accidentally pulled Michelle under. I feel deeply remorseful.”

Geoffrey slammed his palm against the table, his face draining of color from sheer fury. “Such absurd. nonsense! You dare spout such a lie? You and Eleanor have a history of animosity–why would you risk your life to save her?”

Isolde’s cold smile deepened. “Ah, I see. If I speak, it’s absurd. If they speak, it must be the truth. In your eyes, Geoffrey, I am nothing but a deceitful and venomous woman, unworthy of comparison to these paragons of virtue. You decided I was guilty long before today, didn’t you? Even if I were proven innocent this instant, you still wouldn’t believe me.”

Geoffrey stared at her, his icy gaze fixed on that proud, untouchable face. A memory clawed its way to the forefront of his mind–a past accusation, the evidence overwhelming, and yet, she had been wrongly condemned.

For the first time, hesitation flickered in his chest.

quick–witted, I’ll give

Margaret, observing his wavering expression, spoke with detached coolness. “You’re you that. But do you expect us to believe that every single servant here has been bribed? And what of the noble ladies–are they in on this supposed conspiracy too? I find it hard to believe. Eleanor knew she was carrying a child. Why would she risk her own life, and that of her unborn child, just to frame you? And Michelle your own elder sister, with whom you share a deep bond–would she really betray you for a distant cousin? Geoffrey is right. What you’re saying is pure nonsense.”

Geoffrey’s fleeting doubt vanished.

Talia scoffed, her voice frigid. “I may not have heard the argument myself, but based on Isolde’s behavior today, I find her claims utterly unconvincing. When we arrived, she, as the mistress of this estate, was asked to have someone burn some mugwort to ward off the mosquitoes. Instead of obliging, she argued with Mrs. Blackwell over it! And Mrs. Blackwell is her own aunt! A woman who lacks even the most basic respect for her elders–how could she possibly be the type to jump into a lake to save someone? Who would believe such a thing?

stands before us. Milton stood, turning to Tyler with an impoSIDE She cannot refute the truth. You know your duty–do I need to

at Geoffrey. On the surface, it was an open–and–shut case–Isolde appeared guilty

<

Chapter 44 Doug

But anyone willing to probe deeper would see there was more beneath

investigating further, he might yet uncover

made

+ Pearls

Tyler asked, though he knew he shouldn’t have. A part of him still hoped Geoffrey would see

disappointment and anger.

his posture. “Lord Harmon,

sharp, almost taunting voice rang out from the

What’s all this excitement? A

interruption left the room momentarily frozen in

several figures strode into the

fastened with

features sharp, his expression composed and reserved. Yet, beneath that restraint, a cold glint flashed through his

robe walked with an air of leisure despite the brisk

voice matched his appearance–silken and eerie. His long hair was tied back with a violet ribbon, framing

into a perpetual frown, forming a

lips pressed in

them were several black–robed sword–wielding guards, their expressions impassive, their gazes like

they entered, the very air in the room seemed to contract. The space, once vast, suddenly felt stiflingly small. Their mere presence commanded attention–each

Becker. The Lord Chancellor of the Southern Watch. Once Bradley’s favored protégé, now the Queen Mother’s and the King’s most trusted confidant.

Empire to have ever set foot

across the room, his lips curving into a smile as he raised a hand. “I do hope my unannounced visit hasn’t inconvenienced the esteemed gentlemen

N

Mar