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Chapter 1297
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1298
The two military advisors noticed the shift in Oliver's expression, so Alec quickly interjected, "Have you seen the archery skills of the Elite Marksmanship Unit, Marshal Prince? Or the ballistaes we've improved? They're quite ingenious.""I have seen them," Oliver replied curtly. When he first arrived at Southern Frontier, he had gone to oversee their training sessions.Timothy recalled the visit as well. But at that time, they had just selected a new batch of archers and had been working on their accuracy. They hadn't even had the chance to use the new ballistaes either."We also have matchlocks," Louis added. "But when it comes to a direct confrontation between armies, we won't be relying on them. A sword is far more effective. Speed is the key."Matchlocks were more useful in close-quarter combat, where there was cover to hide behind. After firing a shot, one could reload while staying out of sight. However, in a face-to-face battle, before one could even raise the weapon, thei
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1299
Before dawn, the carriages from Redstone Manor set off.The manor's guards saw Oliver off, as he had previously insisted on personally escorting Celeste and their young son. The procession slowly began to move forward.Originally, there were only five carriages. But after leaving the manor, several more joined them. These were arranged by Carl ahead of time. Now, Carl and his men rode ahead on their warhorses, clearing the path.It didn't matter if they were spotted—Oliver and his men were just seeing them off and would return afterward.But when night fell and Oliver had still not returned, the manor's guards began to grow anxious. They hurried to find Louis and Timothy.However, the manor's guards couldn't find them. Louis and Timothy had left the manor not long after the dinner last night, only to begin feeling dizzy and vomiting soon after. As they didn't share the same room, the guards attending them assumed it was simply the result of drinking too much, so they had the kit
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1300
Oliver's sudden flight not only shattered the morale of the troops but also left Louis, Timothy, and the others feeling deeply disheartened and demoralized. Had Oliver stayed and died here, the effect wouldn't have been nearly as disastrous.Meanwhile, rumors spread quickly throughout the Southern Frontier. It seemed someone was deliberately stirring the pot, creating panic and undermining the soldiers' spirits. If Sandoria claimed victory in the first battle, it would be a crushing blow, and the Southern Frontier Army would likely be on the defensive from then on.An urgent dispatch was sent to the capital, racing to deliver news of the crisis.Before the dispatch could even reach the capital, Salvador was the first to realize that Rafael had gone missing.On the fifth day of Rafael's sudden illness, Salvador sent Robert and Derek to visit Hell Monarch Estate once more. Jacob originally planned to stick to the story that Rafael had gone to Sebastian's villa to recuperate. On s
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1301
Carissa knelt on one knee in the royal study, enduring Salvador's cold and sharp scrutiny.Her eyes remained lowered, her expression calm and composed. There was no trace of guilt or ambition—she carried herself with the same respectful demeanor as always.For a fleeting moment, Salvador thought of her lineage. She was Hector's daughter, after all. His earlier suspicions now seemed somewhat absurd. How could the daughter of Hector Sinclair, a man who had given his life on the battlefield, harbor treasonous intent?But the trust only lasted for that brief instant, and it extended solely to Hector, the man who had fallen on the battlefield.A wife followed her husband's lead. Carissa and Rafael shared a unified front—their interests were inevitably aligned."I sent the royal physician to check on Rafael," Salvador said, finally breaking the silence. His voice was steady, betraying none of the turbulent thoughts that had plagued him moments ago. "Jacob informed me that Rafael has gon
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1302
The urgent sealed report stated that Oliver had abandoned his post before the battle. Rumors were spreading like wildfire across the Southern Frontier, shaking the troops' morale. Desertions had begun, and even the soldiers who were originally stationed in the Southern Frontier were showing signs of unease and retreat.Louis reported these things in the urgent sealed report, requesting the court to appoint a commander who could stabilize the situation. Without strong leadership, the loss of the Southern Frontier would not be an exaggeration.Salvador's face darkened as he scanned the room. "Nominate a general to take command at the Southern Frontier," he ordered coldly.The gathered officials exchanged hesitant glances.Aside from the Hell Monarch, only one other candidate had the reputation to command such a critical campaign—Dominic Sullivan. Unfortunately, Dominic had been stripped of his rank.As for the remaining generals—whether it was the aging Tyler, the young Thomas,
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1303
Ever since being confined to Everspring Palace, Kylie hadn't set foot outside its gates.However, after years of maneuvering and influence within the court, news of major events always found its way to her, even in isolation.Today's whispers were no different. She had heard about Jeremiah's bold suggestion that Salvador personally lead the army.The thought alone sent her heart racing, excitement and anticipation surging through her veins. If Salvador were to lead the army himself, he would have no choice but to appoint a crown prince before leaving. And at this moment, there was no other contender but Connor—the eldest prince.It seemed to Kylie as though the Hell Monarch's sudden illness couldn't have come at a better time.As her initial excitement subsided, she forced herself to think clearly. This development, as promising as it seemed, might not come to fruition. Salvador had been absent from the battlefield for years. Would he really risk his safety to go now?Besides
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1304
When Connor was sent to Derek, Kylie smiled and said, "It's too early today. Prince Connor hasn't fully woken up yet. Please keep an eye on him on the way and remind him not to get confused or behave improperly in front of His Majesty."After speaking, Lydia stepped forward and discreetly handed over a banknote.However, Derek didn't take it. Bowing slightly, he replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, there's no need to worry. There's no question of improper behavior. His Majesty simply wanted to see his son and sent me to fetch him."Derek was well-versed in reading people's intentions, and it was clear Kylie was fishing for hints about what Salvador might ask Connor. She hoped Derek could coach the boy during the journey on how to respond properly.In the past, Derek might have quietly accepted such a gesture. Yet, today was different. Kylie's smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered and responded, "Then I'll leave it in your hands, Mr. Walker. Thank you for your tro
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1305
The inkpot didn't hit Connor—Derek had made sure to step in and block it. At this crucial moment, Connor couldn't afford to make any mistakes.Even though it hadn't struck him, the boy was terrified. He burst into loud, uncontrollable sobs.Salvador's fury was unrelenting. "At your age, I could recite The Thousand Verses with ease! You can't even manage two proper lines! From now on, you'll live in your grandmother's palace."Connor's wails grew louder at the decree. "No! I don't want to go! I want to stay with Mom! I hate Grandmother!"He truly did hate visiting Victoria. Every time he went to see her, she would drill him on his studies—just like his dad. Connor despised being questioned about reading and lessons. Why did everyone insist he study all the time?"Take him away! Send him to Serenity Palace immediately," Salvador ordered coldly.Giovanni promptly summoned two young chamberlains to escort Connor to Serenity Palace.Salvador's face turned red with anger, but in his h
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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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1393
Carissa and Violet set off together to investigate, disguising themselves as ordinary visitors. Upon arriving at Glowmere Sanctuary, they first offered candles and prayers before seeking an audience with the abbot. They made their identities known and inquired about a priest named Reuben.The abbot immediately summoned the priest in charge of guests, Carson Jenkins, as it was Carson's responsibility to handle the arrangements for priests who came to stay at the temple.Glowmere Sanctuary was one of the three largest temples in the capital, with a bustling number of visitors each year wanting to stay and listen to teachings. However, very few were actually allowed to stay.Carson recalled Reuben clearly. Reuben's spiritual skills weren't particularly high; originally, he wasn't eligible to stay at Glowmere Sanctuary. However, a few years ago, he had spent considerable time in the Southern Frontier, helping to guide the souls of the dead. Such compassion was a rare virtue, and it wa
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1392
Zoey composed herself, her features hardening into a mask of calm. "You should leave quickly. Once I've gathered the money, I will come find you. Until then, don't wander around and avoid being seen by the Capital Guard."Sensing the concern in her voice, Oliver was relieved. Women, no matter how sharp they might be with others, always seemed to lack a certain sense when it came to their husbands. After all, which woman didn't long for her husband's love?"You must hurry," he urged, "three days, at most."Zoey feigned hesitation, as though the request weighed heavily on her. "Given our current circumstances, as you well know, how could I possibly gather 3,000 silver coins in just three days?"Oliver's eyes gleamed with resolve. "Isn't Courtney a part of the Hell Monarch's household now? I know you have your ways. I'll wait for your word. But remember—three days! And don't tell anyone about it, not even Mom or Viola."With that, he pulled his hat low over his face and turned to
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1391
The citywide search tightened, and it actually forced Oliver to come out of hiding. But he wasn't searching for Viola—he was searching for Zoey.She had gone to Hell Monarch Estate to deliver a set of clothing for Courtney today. While she was out, she decided to pick up a few things for the ladies of Skye Embroidery. Afterward, she was making her way back to the workshop through the west alley when Oliver appeared.Her first instinct was surprise.Hadn't he told Viola not to tell Zoey about his presence? Why would he risk coming here personally to see her?"My dear, it is I," came a voice from beneath a wide-brimmed hat.His face was obscured, but the voice—there was no mistaking it.For a moment, Zoey was too stunned to speak, but then a surge of fury gripped her. She clenched her teeth, trying to swallow the anger that threatened to consume her. With a swift glance, she confirmed that the alley was deserted.Her heart sank as she regretted her earlier complacency. She had ass
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1390
Zoey questioned Viola in detail, asking how she had come across Oliver, what state he was in now, and whether he had brought his child with him.Viola recounted, "I was out yesterday to buy a stew pot, hoping to make some medicinal broth for Mom. After I purchased it, he came up to me. I was startled at first, thinking it was some pervert."But when he called my name, I recognized his voice. His face was so dark and haggard, and his eyebrows were shaved off. He has lost so much weight. If I hadn't carefully examined him, I wouldn't have believed it was Oliver."Viola paused as she recalled the encounter and Zoey's earlier words, still feeling a sense of unease.She continued, "He didn't have a child with him. He was alone. He told me he was forced to flee, and now there are arrest warrants for him everywhere. He has no money left, and with a child to support, things are really difficult for him. He asked me to talk to Mom about gathering 3,000 silver coins."Zoey quickly asked, "I
