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Chapter 1197
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1198
Carissa remained composed as she directed the students and their families out of the hall. She no longer bothered with asking them to keep the incident quiet—it was clear they couldn't.Once they were cleared out, she instructed Claire to bring in Ivy and someone from the Royal Citadel. The man needed to be restrained and interrogated, and it was obvious he had been drugged. Carissa wanted Ivy to determine what substance had been used.The few who had managed to escape were soon captured by Max and his men, all brought back under guard.The others, though somewhat more aware, still seemed dazed. Their eyes, glazed and hungry, followed Carissa and Claire with an unsettling intensity.Carissa walked over and gave Rosalind a comforting hug. Rosalind had already calmed down and reassured her in return, "It's alright, I'm fine.""You foolish girl," Catherine said, her voice heavy with sorrow as she sighed. "You shouldn't have said that. You've ruined your reputation. How are you fine
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1199
Carissa felt an overwhelming sense of guilt deep in her heart. For the past few days, with everything going on at the gentlemen's retreats, she had been out late at night, barely giving any thought to the matters at Gracewood Women's Academy.Kyle had warned her earlier to be extra cautious with the academy. Had she sent even just one more person, none of this would have happened.The Royal Citadel had been swift to respond. Anthony himself led the investigation, which showed just how seriously the Royal Citadel took this matter.Six men were captured, all tightly bound. After a few hard slaps, everyone was awake except for the one who had assaulted Rosalind.After revealing their identities, it turned out that all six were laborers from the docks. They worked long hours unloading cargo and carrying heavy sacks of copper coins, barely earning enough to survive each month.The night before, their foreman had gathered them for a meeting. Nine men sat down to eat and drink, and the f
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1200
The remaining men were trembling with fear, scrambling in panic. Especially Hank, the one who had harassed Rosalind—he was sobbing uncontrollably. Dragging his broken legs, he knelt on the ground as if he didn't even feel the pain, repeatedly pleading with Carissa and Anthony."I was wrong! I was greedy, but I won't ever do it again! Please spare me, my lord! I have an elderly parent who's ill and a newborn daughter at home. If I'm locked up, what will happen to my family?"His cries were piercing and filled with despair.However, Anthony didn't waver and firmly ordered, "Take them away!"People who did bad things might have tragic backstories, but that was no excuse for breaking the law.Those who worked in law enforcement saw this kind of thing all the time, but in the end, the law was the law.As the culprits were dragged away, the academy fell into a heavy silence. The oppressive stillness blanketed the room as the women gathered in the hall, each caught in her own thoughts.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1201
As Carissa rode back to Hell Monarch Estate, the murmurs of the townsfolk reached her ears. Small groups gathered on street corners and market stalls, their conversations buzzing with the shocking events at Gracewood Women's Academy.The academy and Skye Embroidery had already drawn public attention—some admiring, some critical. But now, with a scandal of this magnitude, the entire city seemed to be in an uproar.At the heart of it all was Rosalind, the royal chancellor's granddaughter. The jewel of high society, a young woman of golden pedigree—dishonored by a brutish laborer. Who would marry her now?"She was foolish," someone whispered. "She could have lived out her days as a sheltered noblewoman, but she chose to play teacher. Well, look where that got her! Her reputation is ruined forever."Carissa deliberately slowed her horse, listening intently as she passed by, hoping—desperately—for someone to acknowledge Rosalind's bravery, to speak of how she had shielded her students
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1202
Victoria had long since stepped back from the affairs of court, but her keen interest in the Gracewood Women's Academy was well-known. After all, it had been established under her direct instructions."Could it be," Carissa asked, "that this trouble stems from rivalries among the students' families?"Jacob sighed heavily. "If that's the case, the possibilities are endless. But it's not impossible."He elaborated, "Many households appear harmonious on the surface, but in reality, it's just a facade. Especially in households with concubines—no matter how elevated their status, a concubine would always be subordinate to the main wife. Except, of course, when the husband's favor tips the scales. In such cases, the rivalry between wife and concubine becomes intense, and all sorts of underhanded tactics are used."Carissa nodded thoughtfully.Jacob continued, "Imagine a scenario where both the main wife and a favored concubine have daughters. The wife's daughter secures a spot at the Gr
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1203
By the time Carissa returned to her residence, she had barely settled in before Violet arrived in a rush and pulled her aside."It's about the academy," Violet began, her expression tight with anger. "I fear this may be the work of the king and queen."Carissa blinked, stunned. "The king and queen? Where did you hear this?""Kevin told me," Violet explained. "He overheard the king reprimanding the queen, accusing her of acting recklessly. She defended herself, saying that the king disliked the academy too and that her actions were intended to alleviate his concerns—preventing you from winning over the noblewomen of the capital."The words struck Carissa like a blow, leaving her frozen as an icy chill swept through her.Violet said, "You need to stay calm. You can't let Kevin's name be revealed. If anyone finds out he spoke of this, his future will be ruined."Carissa sank into a chair, her mind spinning. She had entertained bold speculations before, but never had she dared to poi
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1204
As the year drew to a close, the common folk were busy preparing for the New Year, with every household caught up in the bustle.But where there was activity, there was an opportunity for gossip, and rumors quickly spread. Victoria's commendation of Rosalind had little effect. Instead, some started to whisper that Victoria's personal approval might mean there was more to the story than just Rosalind being taken advantage of.This line of thinking slowly became the dominant one, as if someone were deliberately pushing things in that direction. Even someone from Hell Monarch Estate stepped forward to speak on the matter. Witnesses who had been present at the academy also spoke up, explaining that Rosalind had been trying to protect the students and had been accidentally touched by the assailant in the process.But the public wasn't interested in truth or justice. They preferred stories of disgrace, tales that brought the mighty low.The more illustrious Rosalind's reputation had on
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1205
The banishment of the storyteller from the gates barely marked the end of one problem before another arrived on their doorstep.Matchmakers began appearing in turn, each eager to arrange a marriage for Rosalind. The prospects they presented were enough to make Rosalind's parents' blood boil. These were men so far beneath their daughter's station that even a passing glance in their direction would be enough to provoke a disgusted sneer.It wasn't a matter of low status or humble origins—it was their disgraceful behavior. Some had long ago fathered illegitimate children from concubines, while others spent their days drowning in gambling halls, addicted to the thrill of the dice and cards, regardless of how deeply they sank into debt. Some were regulars at brothels, and others kept secret mistresses on the side.These were the kinds of men who usually wouldn't dare approach the family for a marriage proposal. Yet now, they paraded forward, puffing out their chests as if offering Rosali
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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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1397
The capital guards escorted Evelyn, Zoey, and Viola up to the execution platform. Evelyn's legs trembled, and she couldn't muster any strength. Her tears flowed uncontrollably, blurring her vision to the point that she could no longer see clearly."You foolish boy!" Evelyn let out a mournful cry, raising her hand and slapping Oliver's face. "You've disgraced your grandfather and your father! How can you face them in the afterlife?"Her slap lacked force; even as she exerted every ounce of her strength, Oliver barely felt the sting.Caught in a whirlwind of panic, Oliver's mind raced. Seeing his mom before him, he seemed to have found a lifeline in a stormy sea. He cried desperately, "Mom, save me! Please save me!"Evelyn, near exhaustion from her sorrow, could barely speak. "You've committed an unforgivable crime! How can I save you now? His Majesty once showed favor to you—how could you betray such grace?""Mom, I know I was wrong! I know it now!" Oliver cried, tears streaming do
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1396
After Evelyn finished crying, she didn't say much. However, she stubbornly insisted on going to deliver Oliver his final meal. Her eyes were swollen and her voice was thick with congestion, nearly a rasp. "I know the court allows family to see their loved ones before execution," she said, her tone strained. "I don't want anything else—just this one thing. I need to see him and make sure he's fed. I don't want him to die hungry and become a vengeful spirit."Tears began to fall once more as she cast a tearful glance at Zoey. "You have children, too. You should understand what it means to be a mother. To the world, he may be seen as the greatest of villains. But to me, he will always be that helpless child that hasn't changed."Zoey remained silent for a long moment, then finally said, "Mother, do you know how the final meeting is arranged? It is at the execution ground. Are you sure you want to see him getting decapitated?"Evelyn trembled, her body shaking with emotion. "You must
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1395
When Carissa went to the palace to deliver her report, she also expressed her sympathy for Zoey besides presenting the confession. She didn't hide her admiration for Zoey in her words.Despite her difficult life, Zoey still had a kind heart. She continuously gave out food and medicine. Even though her whole family now lived in Skye Embroidery, she never asked for the money she had given away to be returned.Furthermore, Zoey had shown great courage and moral integrity. She had publicly condemned her kin for the sake of the greater good—a rare quality that many men, even among the nobility, could not aspire to.Recognizing the need for such an example to inspire his people, Salvador immediately issued an edict praising Zoey. He granted her 100 gold coins and a residence.As for the exiled men from the Prince family, they could return to the capital after the Southern Frontier won the battle, along with the Hell Monarch.Zoey had turned an impossible situation around. Now, who would
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1394
Oliver was a notorious criminal, and he should have been sent directly to the Supreme Court. However, Carissa took a different route. She had him detained at the Capital Guard headquarters, where he was to be interrogated first. Afterward, she planned to report the matter to Salvador. She would credit Zoey for her tip, and then plead for Caspian and Cedric to be allowed to return to the capital as soon as possible.Celeste was still detained in the Capital Guard headquarters. If she and Oliver met, it might uncover more secrets—such as just how deeply the Spencer family's collateral branch was involved in this mess.The two prisoners were held in adjacent cells, separated by only a narrow iron bar. When their eyes met for the first time, both faces changed instantly.On the way here, Oliver kept cursing Zoey for betraying him. But when he saw Celeste, he completely forgot about Zoey. He snarled, his teeth clenched. "You wretched woman, look at you now! It's true—bad people get w
