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Chapter 1185
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1186
Malcolm stood frozen in place, his face burning with a sharp sting, though no slap had been delivered. It was only then that he realized his recklessness—his impulsive actions had brought the matter of the students at Gracewood Women's Academy all the way to the royal court.With Salvador telling him to stay behind, he stood there, unmoving, until the court session ended.Left alone in the king's private study, Malcolm was instructed to wait outside. The biting cold of the winter wind cut through him like a blade as he stood there for four full hours, not once being summoned in.A swirl of emotions churned inside him, but the most prominent was anger. He was the king's father-in-law. Surely, even if his actions were misguided, Salvador should not have left him to suffer in the cold.By the end of the four hours, his body was nearly frozen, stiff from the cold. Derek, noticing his distress, brought him a small warming stove. The faint warmth provided a small relief from the icy grip
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1187
Back at the Quinton family's residence, Malcolm summoned the members of the fourth branch and unleashed his fury upon them."Malcolm, we were only following Her Majesty's wishes," Vera said, looking aggrieved. "I had planned to propose the third son of the Marquis of Glandale for Jocelyn's marriage, but Her Majesty insisted that we needed military support."She revealed the situation where Kylie had nearly arranged the marriage between Jocelyn and Thomas but had been stopped by Victoria.Her voice grew sharper, adding, "The Farrell family is too proud, don't you think? Do they think a Quinton family daughter isn't worthy of their son? They're looking down on us!""Why should the Farrell family think highly of the Quinton family?" Malcolm retorted sharply. "Have we ever considered the Farrell family's stature in the same light?"Malcolm realized that somehow, his family had begun to expect respect and deference from everyone, as though they were untouchable.The fear began to sett
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1188
On the 15th of December, Salvador went to Everspring Palace.With red-rimmed eyes, Kylie began to speak of Jocelyn's expulsion from Gracewood Women's Academy. Having already reprimanded the Quinton family over this matter, Salvador was displeased to hear Kylie bring it up again. Yet, he remained silent, not giving voice to his frustration.Sharp in her observations, Kylie noticed his irritation and quickly changed the subject, saying, "It seems the noble ladies and wives of the capital are all praising Carissa, calling her the ideal example for women."Salvador gave her a half-smile, his eyes narrowed as he replied, "I find it strange that these noble women are praising someone else and not the kingdom's queen. After all, you are the mother of the nation, and before our marriage, you were widely regarded as a woman of great talent. You should be the one they hold up as the standard."Kylie couldn't tell whether it was a compliment or a subtle rebuke. She wasn't sure if he was mocki
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1189
Apart from being a mentor, Violet had formed a small team with Alana, Leah, and the others. Together, they had taken it upon themselves to track down rapists who had been causing trouble in the city.At first, Violet had thought it would be a simple task: catch the culprits, force them to confess, and send them off to the authorities. But when they arrived at the authorities, the culprits claimed they had only confessed because they had been beaten up.Alana had quietly approached the young women who had been victimized, hoping they might speak up. But one by one, they denied that anything had happened. Some even turned them away as soon as they saw Alana or anyone from her group.Without any evidence to back up the claims of their crimes, the authorities had no choice but to release the culprits.Violet's frustration grew with every failed attempt. At times, she was filled with a murderous urge, and the thought of dealing with the culprits in the same ruthless manner she would hav
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1190
Aside from having household soldiers in Hell Monarch Estate, Rafael had not invested in developing a Shadow Guard or any such force. At most, there were a few skilled warriors who frequently went on official assignments, but they all had their duties to attend to and would only return every half month or so to report.There were also spies, mostly used to gather intelligence on the enemy, but they were rarely used for private matters.The lack of a larger force was due to several reasons.Before Rafael had been stationed at the Southern Frontier, he had already earned his battle merits. During his time in the capital leading the Mystic Army, Sigmund had strictly forbidden him from establishing too many guards, particularly a Shadow Guard, which was considered a serious taboo.Then, after Rafael went to the Southern Frontier, there was no time to think about such matters. Upon his eventual return to the capital, amidst Salvador's growing suspicions, any thoughts of increasing his fo
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1191
Randall remained silent for quite some time. His hands were underneath the table, gripping tightly. The cold was biting, yet his palms were damp with sweat.He knew he had to make a choice.When he first became a warden at the Supreme Court, he had spent countless hours pondering over decisions, uncertain of what the right course of action was. In the end, it was Matthew who noticed his restless thoughts and told him not to worry."Focus only on what's in front of you," Matthew had said.Since Randall didn't think about it, he didn't have any answers.Now, faced with Rafael's piercing question, Randall stared blankly at him for a long moment. The weight of the prince's gaze left his mind in a fog.Almost instinctively, he said, "There are soldiers in Lunvale, though I don't know how many.""How do you know this?" Rafael asked.After mentioning the soldiers in Lunvale, Randall's heart skipped a beat. Yet, strangely, it steadied soon after. Making a choice didn't feel as difficul
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1192
As Randall walked out of the hall, his head was held high, his gaze unwavering, and his step filled with renewed purpose. No longer was he the slumped, defeated figure he had been earlier.It was all because of one last thing Rafael had said to him."Matthew mentioned to me that you've handled your warden duties well. After a year or so of experience, I'll see about promoting you."At that moment, Randall's eyes had burned with unshed tears.Aside from Avis, no one had ever acknowledged his abilities. No one had ever truly praised him.Avis would praise him, of course, but those praises had always been laced with consolation. He had never been good at studies or martial arts. She would assure him that, in time, he would amount to something.But that was just comfort, not real recognition.Now, for the first time, Randall had been truly recognized. He didn't even care whether that recognition was sincere or watered down. At that moment, the feeling was too overwhelming, too wonde
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1193
Carissa had her own list of reminders for Rafael—to be careful on the road, to stay alert, and most importantly, if he came across any "pretty flowers" along the way, to look but not bring them back.The hint of jealousy in her tone made Rafael's heart soar with joy. As he swung himself onto his horse, he flashed a grin and swore his loyalty."I won't even spare a glance," he promised.However, Travis looked puzzled for a moment, then asked, "What flowers could you possibly find on the road in the middle of winter? Even if there are any, they're likely being well-tended by someone. How could anyone just pick them? You can look, but why wouldn't you look?"His confusion made both Jacob and Kyle chuckle.Violet snorted and teased, "Poor fool, stop talking! You're completely missing the point. You're talking about one thing when they're talking about something completely different."Travis scratched his chin, deep in thought. He still couldn't understand it, even when Dylan called o
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1580
"Elise, must your mouth run on without end?" Carissa frowned at her daughter, who had been chattering away beside Ryan from the moment he stepped through the door.The little girl's face was flushed from the sun, her hair tangled into a messy nest that made it clear she had only just returned from playing outdoors. She hadn't stopped talking since Ryan came back from his travels, pestering him with questions about what he had seen and done.Elise turned to Carissa with wide eyes, looking up with a face so innocent it could soften stone. She truly had inherited the best features from both her parents."Mom, I haven't seen Ryan in such a long time. Every moment without him felt like an eternity. We've been apart for so long, so of course I have a lot to say to him."Carissa's frown deepened. "And who taught you to speak in such a ridiculous manner? An eternity—where did that come from?""Sage Isaac said it to Aunt Violet. He went back to Meadow Ridge for a few days and said it to her
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1579
Though Ryan had told Cecil he was going on a journey, he didn't stay long at Eldermere Keep. After just seven days, he left and made his way to the Pathfinders Guild.He had initially planned to return to the capital to seek out Claire, but soon reconsidered. Instead of troubling her, he thought it best to directly ask Winona to teach him the art of disguise.It was not difficult to learn, but to do it well—to the point where no one could tell—was another matter. Such skill could not be acquired in just a few months.The simpler form of disguise involved merely altering one's features with makeup and slight adjustments to the face. This was fine for ordinary situations, but could easily be seen through in more challenging circumstances, like on a rainy day for instance.Therefore, Ryan knew he couldn't settle for such a basic method.The more advanced form of disguise involved creating a mask as a false face. However, these masks had their own set of problems. They were thick, unco
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1578
That evening, Ryan and Clarence sat by candlelight and spoke quietly. They avoided discussing court politics as Clarence had no interest in such matters. As long as the kingdom was peaceful, that was enough for him.He was no longer the eldest prince of Starhaven, and only had himself to look after now. Everything else had faded into the past.It was better not to speak of politics; it was too sensitive a topic. In his younger years, Clarence hadn't understood why his "death" was so tied to such matters. But over the years, Sebastian had explained everything to him, bit by bit, including the risks and consequences.The bond between Clarence and Cecil was not without affection. However, to gamble with one's life and future for the sake of family might not be the wisest choice for any of them.Clarence had come to terms with it. Life had to go on; it was better to live it well today than to wonder about tomorrow."Aunt Carissa said you're no longer able to stand, but you were walking
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1577
The azaleas of Eldermere Keep bloomed in a riot of color, spreading across the hills in a blaze of purple and red. The sight was enough to dazzle anyone who set eyes upon it, especially those who had never visited this secluded place. It was the kind of beauty that made one long to stay forever.Yet, there was one exception.A young man rode his horse to the base of the mountain, dismounted, and secured his steed. Without a glance at the dazzling scene around him, he began to walk the path up the mountain, his gaze fixed firmly on the road ahead.The vivid azaleas stretched out along either side of the path, reaching out as if to claim him, but he merely brushed them aside with a casual swipe of his hand.His pace was swift, and he occasionally used his Lightfoot Skill. Eldermere Keep was not high up, but its location was well-hidden, with many winding paths leading in. However, he had studied the map countless times before embarking on this journey, so the route to the keep was et
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1576
Rafael glanced at the robe. "Isn't that mine? Are you saying I've gotten fat? I'm not fat.""Oh, is it yours? It's too long, then. I'll have someone alter it for me," Carissa replied casually.Rafael shook his head. "If you want something loose, just have someone make it for you. Why bother altering my old clothes? It's not even comfortable.""I'm going to Meadow Ridge for a year. Wearing your clothes will make it feel like you're still with me," Carissa said with a bright smile, as if the idea of being apart for a year was no more serious than being apart for a day."A year?" Rafael looked shocked. "You're going back for a whole year? Why?""Well, of course, my mentor misses me, and I miss him too," Carissa replied, placing her hands on her hips as she handed the robe to Lulu, who was standing by with a hand over her mouth, trying not to laugh."But I won't leave right away. Since Ryan is about to inherit the duke's title, I'll wait until that's settled before I go back to Meado
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1575
On the 13th day of winter, Salvador suddenly woke up feeling clearer than before. Saying he was hungry, he specifically asked for beef stew and milk pastries.Derek hurried to make the necessary arrangements. When the food arrived, Octavia sat by the bed as she had done many times before, ready to feed him. But Salvador insisted he wanted to sit up to eat himself.Derek gently helped the king sit up, placing a soft cushion behind him to support his back. Salvador had grown so thin that he seemed to be nothing but skin and bones. His body slouched as he sat, so Derek had to kneel beside the bed, holding his waist to keep him steady.Salvador finished an entire bowl of stew, eating it all without leaving a single bit behind. Then, he picked up a small milk pastry. But after a bite, he felt a little nauseous, so he didn't eat any more.Sebastian sent word to Victoria. After a brief conversation, her face turned pale and tears started to fall almost immediately. Though she had tried to
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1574
Once back at the palace, Salvador was unable to rise from his bed. Sebastian spoke briefly with him, hinting that he didn't have much time left. If there was anyone he wished to see, it should be done as soon as possible.The first person Salvador wanted to see was, of course, Victoria."That child… When he saw me, he couldn't stop asking about you. You didn't love him in vain, Mom," Salvador murmured, his voice weak.Victoria sighed deeply. "How cruel... his life must be lived hidden away in the mountains, never able to leave. Is there truly no hope for his legs?""I believe there is no hope," Salvador replied softly, his lips pale and drained of color. "But as I was leaving, he said, 'Dad, once I've learned enough medicine, I'll cure you. I'll make you better.'"Victoria's heart ached. "What a good child."Salvador's gaze drifted to the ceiling, his voice barely a whisper as he repeated, "Yes, he is a good child."After speaking with Victoria, Salvador asked Rafael to bring in
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1573
Salvador had temporarily settled at Eldermere Keep. The place was filled with every kind of medicine, yet his illness had reached a point where no remedy could ease his suffering.Still, staying there brought him peace. It was as if he had finally set down a heavy burden and could now live as an ordinary father. He spent each day with his son, sharing simple moments together.Carissa was allowed to visit and spend some time with Connor. He asked her about Ryan, specifically inquiring whether he had made any new friends."Ryan has no other friends but you. He always thinks about you," she reassured with a smile, thinking the eldest prince might be jealous.Connor was quiet for a long while, his expression tinged with guilt. Finally, with a deep sadness in his eyes, he softly said, "I have friends now, like Otto. Ryan should have his own friends too. I always think about him, but... I don't think I'll ever see him again."Carissa gently patted his head and smiled. "The future is lon
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1572
After the sun set behind the mountains, the temperature began to drop. Salvador had been carried up the mountain, but now, he was carrying Connor on his back as they made their way back into the estate.Connor had his arms tightly wrapped around Salvador's thin shoulders, and he couldn't stop the tears from falling. This was a scene he had never even dared to dream of. Not only had he never imagined being carried by his father, but even something as simple as having his father gently pat his head had always seemed like an impossible wish.But his father was so thin; there was no flesh on his back at all. How had he become so frail?Carissa and the others waited outside the gates. Not even Galen had been allowed in. Only Salvador's most loyal attendants, those who had carried the litter, were permitted to enter. The others, of course, were kept away from Connor. They all believed that Salvador had come to Eldermere Keep solely to recover from his illness.The estate itself was full
