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Chapter 1214

Author: Summer's Blaze
On New Year's Eve, Ryan wore a bright red woolen cloak, its edges lined with soft white fur, a thick hood atop his head. His lively, cheerful demeanor matched his outfit as he eagerly waited for the Klein family's carriage to arrive.

Jacob had already prepared many gifts, many of which Ryan had personally chosen.

The night before, Frederick had come over from Northwatch Estate to deliver the account books. Ryan had stayed up all night, carefully reviewing them. Jacob told him there was no rush to go through them, and then went to ask Carissa for some leniency.

Carissa told him it would be good for Ryan to learn how to manage the accounts sooner rather than later—after all, he would need to take charge of everything in Northwatch Estate eventually.

While Ryan examined the books, his study partner Evan stayed by his side. However, Evan was heading home to celebrate the New Year and wouldn't be accompanying him to Highcrest Estate.

Carissa's greatest joy was that Ryan, though meticu
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  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1215

    Before the palace banquet, Carissa sat with Victoria, spent time with Grace, sat with Penelope, and then took a walk in the Royal Garden with several grand princesses, including Kiera and Meredith.Today, Meredith wore a bright red embroidered gown with a white dove pattern. With her powdered face and rouge, she looked even more noble. Holding a fan to cover her face, she smiled and said, "I heard that after the formal complaint about the Quinton family was submitted, Lord Gerald quickly gathered the family and severely punished the fourth branch, saying that all this trouble was caused by them."As Victoria's daughter, Meredith held a respected position among the royal family. The other princesses always followed her lead. When Meredith spoke of the Quinton family, everyone else agreed. Even Henrietta laughed along.Henrietta was Josephine's daughter and a granddaughter of the Quinton family. However, she had long since distanced herself from the family. Her husband Vance advised t

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1216

    Little did Carissa know, Jeanette would keep talking to her throughout the performance. Sometimes, she even giggled and playfully nudged Carissa, as if they were very close and familiar with each other.Their interaction caught the attention of the other concubines nearby. A few of them even leaned in, casting curious glances several times.Though people would call it interacting, in reality, Carissa only occasionally agreed or nodded, giving a smile to be polite.However, others didn't see it that way. After the performance, both Meredith and Kiera pulled Carissa aside with puzzled expressions."You and Jeanette know each other?"Carissa shook her head. "We've never met before today.""Then why does it seem like you two are so familiar with each other?" Kiera's confusion deepened.Meredith noticed something was off and frowned. "Stay away from her in the future. Her intentions aren't sincere."Carissa had already gathered that much. But at the time, everyone was watching the p

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1217

    Gerald was slightly startled. He turned to look at Carissa, his expression showing a hint of displeasure. "Do you think I'm wrong, Your Grace? Or do you believe you are capable of teaching and spreading knowledge yourself?"Helen reached out, gently tugging on Carissa's sleeve, a silent plea for her to avoid any further argument with Gerald.Helen loved Sigmund, so she had great respect for Gerald, who was once his tutor. In fact, she had once considered having Rafael marry one of the Quinton family's daughters. Ultimately, Kiera had married Logan, which fulfilled Helen's wish.Moreover, Helen felt that even though Gerald spoke to Carissa in a reprimanding tone, it was still advice from an elder to a youngster. Carissa should accept it humbly.To be honest, she felt a bit uncomfortable, especially with Gerald's somewhat mocking tone. Wasn't he implying that Carissa lacked education? Even so, Helen chose to overlook it. After all, Gerald was a royal tutor, and age demanded respect

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1218

    Carissa returned home to find Jacob waiting for her with a letter from Rafael, a broad smile on his face. "Prince Rafael's letter arrived after you've only just stepped out," he said, handing it to her.Carissa's eyes lit up as she took the letter. She didn't open it immediately but instead asked, "Why aren't you spending the New Year with your family, Jacob?""I'm about to head back to celebrate with them," Jacob replied with a mischievous glint in his eyes, "but I wanted to make sure the letter was handed to you personally. I was also eager to see the look on your face when you read it. Plus, I'm curious what else His Highness might have said, beyond just personal matters."Carissa couldn't hide her delight. "This is his first letter to me. I'll read it right away."She knew there must be details about the investigation in the letter, so it would need to be reviewed by Jacob. As she opened the envelope, she found three sheets of paper: two addressed to her, and one detailing th

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1219

    Carissa couldn't reply to Rafael's letter, as they didn't have a permanent place where they were staying. All she could do was tuck her longing deep in her heart, waiting until he returned to tell him everything in person.The New Year was a lively celebration, filled with visits and gatherings. Lulu practically wanted Carissa to try on every new outfit she had, knowing she would be back in her official attire once she returned to the Capital Guard headquarters.Every morning, Lulu would sit Carissa down in front of the vanity and try out different styles, making her look stunning each time. Even the prime minister's wife Natalie remarked how a woman didn't need to have pale skin to look beautiful.Carissa's skin wasn't pale. All the time she spent outdoors had taken away the delicate fairness of a sheltered woman. Instead, her sun-kissed tone carried a warm, healthy glow that made her stand out in her own unique way.On the eighth day of the new year, Kylie was released from her h

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1220

    "But how long can they afford the tuition? And the daughters of ordinary families have to help out at home to make a living. Studying doesn't exactly bring in money," Violet asked.Carissa thought for a moment. "That money's not insignificant. It should last a year or two. We can't waive the fees entirely, but we could lower them. Maybe offer half-day classes, so the girls can still help their families with work in the afternoon."She paused, considering the possibilities. "And don't forget about the merchants. They won't be stingy with their money. The constraints of rules and propriety are less strict for them."Violet nodded. "That's true. Unless they're from a noble family or are royal merchants, ordinary merchants often let their women handle business affairs.""Even ordinary families might send their daughters. Partly because of Mr. Spencer's reputation, but also because many can't afford to send their sons to school. If their daughters can attend an academy with low tuitio

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1221

    At Serenity Palace, Victoria was listening to a report from Ruth's chamberlain, Oscar. After he was done, Victoria sighed softly."I understand. Have the royal physicians do everything they can. Use the best herbs available.""Yes, Your Majesty!" Oscar replied, his eyes red-rimmed. "Thank you, Your Majesty.""Why was this not reported to the queen?" Victoria asked calmly.Oscar explained, "I've already reported it. The queen said it's a natural part of aging and that it was bound to happen. She sent some food over and told Lady Ruth not to worry, and that everything would be taken care of. I didn't dare to repeat this directly to Her Grace."Victoria frowned slightly. "I see. Yes, there's no need to mention it. What needs to be done will be done. But for now, we must do all we can to provide treatment."Oscar's voice was hoarse as he said, "With Your Majesty's words, I am at ease. With the royal physicians attending her, at least Lady Ruth will be more comfortable.""Go now. I w

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1222

    Upon hearing these words, Victoria raised an eyebrow slightly, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "I recall before you married the king, you were renowned throughout the capital for your scholarly accomplishments. You've read so many books, yet now you claim that women shouldn't study? You were just praising the benefits of learning, and yet here you are, contradicting yourself. Are you unaware of this?"Kylie was taken aback. "I… I didn't mean it in that way. It is not that women should not study. Indeed, it is a good thing for ladies of noble families to broaden their knowledge for their refinement. After all, they are guided by family rules and propriety. Education just adds to their virtues."Victoria's smile remained, but her voice turned pointed. "I've noticed that you often speak of propriety and rules. Do you truly enjoy being bound by such things?"Kylie was momentarily stunned. "Mother, surely, this is the foundation upon which women are meant to stand. How could one spe

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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

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