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Chapter 1004
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1005
When Hannah heard that the woman's last name was Lloyd, she couldn't help but sigh even more deeply.A simple coffin, two sets of clothes—one worn by Hollis, and the other for burial alongside her.Hannah had a kind heart. She learned that Hollis had been working for a ready-made clothing shop and earned a living by making embroidered pieces. Hannah bought the clothes for Hollis at the same shop. The shopkeeper had mentioned that both sets of embroidered clothing were made by Hollis herself.Hollis was born in March 34 years ago and passed away this March. Her birthdate and death date were only eight days apart.The death of a discarded woman barely caused a ripple, like a small stone thrown into a lake—just a tiny disturbance, and then nothing more. No one spoke of it again.However, there was a storyteller who shared the news of how Skye Embroidery had arranged for Hollis' burial. He also spoke about how indifferent Hollis' husband and family were regarding her death. Those wh
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1006
Carissa furrowed her brow. "Why would she go to the workshop?"Skye Embroidery had been advertised as a place for women who had been abandoned or cast out—those with nowhere to go and struggling to make a living. Jessica should still be able to survive after her divorce. As far as Carissa knew, Jessica owned several properties and shops. Even after being cast out, she could continue living a comfortable life.The maid from the Lloyd family explained, "She said she had nowhere else to go and insisted on staying. She even insulted Madam Hannah and claimed that since the workshop takes in divorced women, she qualifies. If she's not allowed in, then the workshop is just pretending to help and is being hypocritical. Madam Hannah was so upset that she sent me to inform you and Ms. Spencer, Your Grace."The moment Violet heard that Hannah had been insulted, she couldn't hold herself back. "I'll go," she said immediately.Davis often called his wife a "mother tigress", but in truth, Ha
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1007
Just moments ago, Jessica had been brash and loud. However, the sight of Carissa and Violet instantly silenced her.She clutched the hem of her dress, her chin raised slightly, unwilling to lower her head even in her fallen state. A pair of small, gilded butterfly earrings dangled from her ears. It was out of place with her shabby attire, as if it was all she had to maintain the last bit of dignity and respectability.She had come alone, without even a maid in tow."Your Grace, Ms. Spencer, you've come at just the right time," Hannah said.Her face was livid, ashen with anger. "I've dealt with my fair share of troublesome people, but I've never seen anyone cause this much of a scene! She wants to stay at the workshop and insists we change the name to her own. When I asked what she was cast out for, she refused to say a word."It wasn't hard to understand why Hannah was furious. When the workshop was first established, she and Carissa laid down strict rules. Any woman cast out fo
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1008
Seeing Carissa and Violet exchanging looks, Jessica's temper flared. She didn't care whether Carissa was someone she could afford to anger anymore. "So, you're all just hypocrites! You don't actually want to shelter women who have been mistreated and cast out. Pretending to be kind-hearted—what a joke! I'll expose you for what you really are!" she shouted.Despite that, she made no move to stand up. Instead, she sat there, still glaring at Hannah with bitter resentment.Carissa watched her, confused. When Hannah's maid had come to report in person, Carissa had thought Jessica was simply here to stir up trouble. Now that she had seen Jessica in person, she wasn't so sure.Jessica seemed angry, but there was something about her demeanor that didn't add up. She was shouting, but hadn't even shifted in her seat. Was she so destitute now after being cast out?"I heard you even want to change the name of our workshop?" Violet asked.Her tone had softened a little, but she couldn't hel
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1009
There was no need for Carissa or Violet to dig into Jessica's situation.For many years, Luke had been old friends with Giles, the head steward of Ironridge Estate. He met Giles for a meal the following day, and the whole situation became clear.It turned out that the previous year, the Marquis of Ironridge had taken a new concubine. Her name was Flora Crawford. Her father was a scholar, and she herself was well-read. She was initially engaged, but her fiancé tragically died two years ago in an accident, earning her the reputation of being a "widow-maker." She had been ridiculed ever since.Somehow, she crossed paths with Leopold, who took a liking to her and made her his concubine.According to Giles, the reason Leopold had taken Flora in was partly to support the management of the household. Emma had been ill for a long time and had almost died last winter. It wasn't until the weather warmed that she started recovering.Flora was skilled in managing the household. Since her arri
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1010
Carissa smiled sweetly when she saw Rafael had returned so early, her eyes crinkling with warmth. "Have you settled all the cases?""Not yet, but I didn't feel like staying up tonight," Rafael replied, his gaze meeting hers. Without realizing it, the hard edges of his face softened. A smile tugged at his eyes as he walked over and sat down next to her.Jacob glanced back and called for some drinks. "My throat's about to catch fire. Get some cold fruit juice."Violet laughed and asked, "What kept you so busy today, Jacob? Your voice is hoarse.""Had to go round up the shops, negotiate with some people," Jacob said, giving a respectful nod to Carissa before sitting down.Violet was uninterested in those details, so she turned her attention to Rafael. "You said you know something about Jessica. What's going on with her?""Her finances were never solid to begin with," Rafael replied. "During the investigation into the treason case, it was discovered that all the money her shops m
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1011
Carissa thought back to how Jessica had been so desperate that she had to pick up a few coins. It was clear she was now at her wit's end.However, the situation had grown increasingly complicated. While Jessica's original intent was merely to get back at Flora's mom, the outcome was far more severe—Flora ended up losing her child.As if that wasn't enough, Jessica later pushed Serena into a lake, fully aware that the latter couldn't swim. This meant Jessica's actions weren't accidental. Her malicious intent toward Serena was clear."I know it's wrong, but I can't help it—I find it a bit funny that Serena got pushed into a lake," Violet said with a solemn face.She quickly muttered an apology and prayer under her breath, hoping to redeem herself spiritually.Carissa frowned slightly. "What I don't understand is how Jessica could be so stupid. She's no longer a duchess and she's not even respected at Ironridge Estate. Her mom's imprisoned and her dad's dead, yet she's still causing
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1012
Before Carissa could visit Margaret, rumors about Skye Embroidery spread like wildfire the very next day.It was said that both Carissa and Hannah were hypocrites. When a discarded woman came seeking help, they refused her and made things difficult for her.Many had already harbored hostility toward Skye Embroidery, believing that sheltering discarded women was a challenge to social order. If a woman had been cast out, it was assumed she deserved it. Even being jealous and unable to bear children were considered crimes.With the rumors swirling, the workshop was suddenly the target of widespread criticism. The public was filled with scorn—some called them hypocrites, others suggested they had ulterior motives, and some even accused them of trying to make money off the situation.That evening, Violet slammed her fists on the table. "How could Jessica cause such a stir on her own? I don't believe it."Furious, she stormed out of the room. Carissa called after her, "Where are you g
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1406
Salvador summoned Eustace to the palace for an audience.Eustace had come prepared. Though he had led his bodyguards and the merchant convoys to quell the unrest, the connection between the Spencer family's collateral branch and Nicholas couldn't be easily dismissed. Even if Salvador publicly declared their merits balanced with their faults, it was not something that could be swept aside without consequence.However, Salvador's attitude towards Eustace was surprisingly warm. The former even praised him for his loyalty to the throne and his patriotic spirit, noting that he resembled his late father in his unwavering commitment. The previous head of the Spencer family had been generous to the court, contributing substantial funds during times of war.Eustace understood the underlying message and quickly offered, "With both the Southern Frontier and Victory Pass embroiled in battle, the Spencer family is willing to contribute in whatever small way we can. We will donate 300,000 silve
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1405
Adrian had been in the capital for some time now. In the past, he had been consumed with his studies on sacred firearms, leaving little room for anything else. But now, with some free time, he used the excuse of being unable to let go of the business in the city to extend his stay.The truth was, he was concerned for Carissa.His interest in sacred firearms had begun with his trip to Nerathia to study their methods. He had done it for the Southern Frontier, then Hector, and ultimately, for Rafael and Carissa.As a mentor, Adrian knew that they each had their own paths to walk. He couldn't prevent them from forging their own futures, but he could help them however he could and act as their support.Adrian often claimed he wasn't cut out to be a teacher. But the truth was, his apprentices were exceptional. Each one of them was a person of great character. None of them needed his constant concern—except for Carissa.She had always been wild and carefree. But even so, she had mast
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1404
As Nicholas was paraded through the streets, the weight of his downfall crushed him entirely. His sanity fractured and he screamed curses at the people, accusing them of ignorance and foolishness. He raged at the masses, claiming they had been deceived by the court, that they had mistaken a foolish king for a wise ruler. He claimed that only he was the true sovereign—the one destined to bring justice and prosperity.His hoarse cries were drowned out by the roar of the crowd. The people shouted for his death, calling for him to be torn apart. They said that the execution by Torso Cleaving was far too merciful. They demanded he be cut into pieces and slowly tortured to death, as punishment for his evil deeds.On the other hand, Yuvan stayed silent the whole time. Inside, he was filled with resentment and hatred for Nicholas. He believed that if Nicholas hadn't turned his people against him, he could have succeeded.Nicholas was like a poisonous snake, hiding in the shadows. When Yuv
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1403
Now that everyone had been gathered, the long-awaited reckoning could finally begin.After thorough investigations by the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Justice, in cooperation with the Capital Guard, it was confirmed that Yuvan, Nicholas, and his associates were indeed guilty of treason.The charges were indisputable. After such a long delay, it was time to list all their crimes for the world to see.Yuvan's entire family—except for Randall, who had provided valuable information—was sent to Astral Prison. However, Randall was also removed from the royal registry. He remained in his post at the Supreme Court, still serving as warden. Despite that, it was clear that any prospects for promotion were now out of reach for the next ten years.Matthew had ordered Randall to take a temporary leave, telling him to stay away from Astral Prison and reflect quietly at home while the matter was sorted.Matthew thought Randall was a bit slow, but at least the latter was honest and willing t
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1402
Clifford's eyes gleamed with a sharp light. "Very well. Let's hear some of your self-righteous words."Salvador, ever the suspicious soul, had always been wary of the Hell Monarch's household. Even if Carissa hadn't risen for women's rights, Salvador would still remain cautious of her.How could Carissa not know Clifford's intentions? From the moment he asked, she knew it was a trap.Before she could respond, Clifford sneered and added, "You can always start by flattering King Salvador. Praise him for how he treats women under his rule. As long as your conscience is clear, feel free to do so."Carissa was infuriated, but she wasn't willing to be baited. She met his mocking, challenging gaze. "Don't make assumptions. That's not the same thing at all. You think people are ignorant and narrow-minded as they can't understand your preferences, so you resort to extreme measures to gain their approval. But that's your personal problem. You can't speak for others like you, and you're not
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1401
Gerald and Clifford met in the Supreme Court's interrogation room. They sat across from each other, an old wooden table between them. Carissa sat behind the scribe's desk, not far from them. Even if they spoke in hushed tones, she could hear every word clearly.The only sounds in the room were the quiet rustle of breath, the steady beat of hearts, and occasionally, the almost imperceptible sound of a sigh.Yet, no words passed between them.Neither of them exchanged even a fleeting glance. It was as if they were two strangers who were forced to sit together—distant, indifferent.Carissa wondered if it was her presence that made things so strained, though she could not leave. All she could do was endure the awkward silence alongside them.At last, Gerald asked, "Why?"Gerald was truly baffled, struggling to reconcile the person before him with the image of someone he thought he knew. No matter how he looked at Clifford, he could not align the two.Clifford clasped his hands tog
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1400
As Carissa returned to the Capital Guard Headquarters the next morning, Heather intercepted her at the door.It had been a long while since Carissa had last seen Heather. In fact, it seemed Heather had kept herself mostly secluded lately.Since Harvey had been brought back to the capital, his son Lennon Sanford had not been captured, but Chester's forces continued their search. It was almost certain that the boy would be caught soon enough.Heather, anxious that Lennon might be implicated and face the same brutal punishment of beheading, rushed to Carissa for help.Carissa knew Heather had already tried appealing to Leona when Harvey was first brought back. She had asked Leona to talk to Carissa on her behalf. Yet Leona had refused, and she never mentioned the matter to Carissa. Carissa only learned of this from Alana."Carissa!" Heather hurried toward her, her face frantic with worry. "I need to speak with you. Could we find a quiet place to talk?""I have matters to attend to.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1399
In her study, Carissa wrote a letter. Then, she handed it to Jacob with instructions to have it delivered to Rafael in the Southern Frontier.She knew the situation in the Southern Frontier. Victor was amassing troops but neither attacking nor retreating, keeping things in a stalemate.Everyone knew that Victor was just stalling. He had been given a military order to invade the Southern Frontier, but since Nicholas had failed, he could not return with any captured cities or military achievements to report.If Victor made a hasty retreat now, he would likely lose more than just his position—his life might be forfeited as well. He attempted to forge alliances with the nomads, hoping to find a way out—perhaps a way to secure his future or an escape from certain doom.The nomads, tired of conflict, had no interest in picking sides. Caught in the middle, they were doing everything they could to remain neutral, refusing to aid either side. If they really had to choose, they would choos
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1398
At precisely three in the afternoon, the long execution block was brought forward. The block was forged from ironwood, solid and unyielding. It was the only one of its kind in Starhaven, used solely for execution by Torso Cleaving.The block had been kept in storage for years.Augustus had once deemed the act of Torso Cleaving too brutal. Even those who committed the most grievous offenses were spared this form of execution. Yet, the punishment had not been abolished. It remained a tool to strike fear into the hearts of would-be traitors.The cruelty of Torso Cleaving lay in the fact that after a person was cleaved in two, the upper body could still crawl, struggle, and leave behind a bloody trail.Normally, Torso Cleaving wasn't meant to be witnessed by the public. But treason, betraying the kingdom, and plotting to overthrow the throne were considered unforgivable crimes. Salvador didn't know how many people had dealings with the traitors, and some conspirators were too deepl
