MasukShare
Chapter 161
Bab terkait
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 162
Heather and Leona stayed for an hour before leaving. Carissa accompanied them to the gates of the estate, maintaining a demeanor of complete friendliness and lack of resentment.Lulu, feeling upset on her behalf, said, “My lady, you sent gifts to the princess, but the princess’s mother had them returned. Clearly, she looked down on you at that time. Why are you being so kind to them today?”Sitting in front of the vanity, Carissa instructed Lulu to remove her hairpins. “Isn’t socializing just a matter of putting on a smile and exchanging pleasantries? Aunt Heather has always been kind to me. I was indeed thoughtless before—sending gifts to my cousin while I was the one who had divorced.”“But you didn’t personally go. Besides, you were granted a divorce by the king. It wasn't like your husband unilaterally divorced you. Why were the gifts returned?”“Lulu, don’t dwell on these things. It’s exhausting to be so petty about everything.” Carissa glanced at her weary reflection in the
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 163
Rebecca arrived with Benjamin, Amelia, and Serena in tow.As soon as she alighted from the carriage, she twisted her ankle and fell. She sat right in front of Northwatch Estate, and began to wail uncontrollably.“Carissa, I’ve always treated you like my own daughter! You’ve never suffered any hardship when you were married to our family! I’ve never imposed any rules on you! Your divorce was granted by the king at your request. How could you hold such a grudge against me? You know I need Sebastian’s medicine to survive, but you refuse to let him come and treat me! Are you trying to kill me?”Serena joined in the crying. “That's right, Carissa!” she said. “You shouldn’t forget the kindness we showed you! When your family was wiped out, Mom was worried you would be depressed. She stayed by your side day and night, even sleeping with you to help you through those hard times. How can you be so heartless now?”Rebecca clutched her chest, sobbing in a heartbroken manner. Despite that, s
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 164
Rebecca had no way to respond. After all, she hadn’t provided even a single item of compensation! There wasn’t a stitch or thread to account for!She could only continue to wail, “Whether there was any compensation, Carissa knows in her heart. Just ask her, and you’ll find out.”“Madam Warren, there’s no need to cry,” Frederick continued in a calm voice. “If there was compensation, just state the items and the amount of gold and silver involved. There were officials present during the divorce, so it’s easy to verify.”“Furthermore,” Frederick went on, still speaking in a measured tone, “you said you treated Lady Sinclair like your own daughter. When the Duke of Northwatch's family was annihilated, you claim you stayed by her side day and night. “While this may be partly true, it’s not the whole story. At that time, you were ill. It was Lady Sinclair who stayed with you day and night, attending to your every need. From the moment she married into your family, she cared for you wh
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 165
Lily stepped forward to interrupt Rebecca's pitiful display, her expression fierce. "What do you mean, it was a marriage edict granted by the king? Wasn't it General Warren who requested the marriage through his military achievements? "And don’t talk about concubines! What General Warren wanted was a legitimate wife! When the royal edict was issued, General Warren and General Yates came to see Lady Sinclair. Would you like me to repeat what heartless words they uttered?"General Warren said that after marrying General Yates, he would never set foot in Lady Sinclair’s room again. She was only to manage the household and continue using her dowry to support the Warren family. They expected Lady Sinclair to care for any children General Warren and General Yates had, which would give Lady Sinclair some form of purpose."Also, General Yates demanded a high dowry. Since the Warren family couldn’t provide it, they demanded Lady Sinclair to lend them the money. She was willing, but she wo
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 166
Frederick’s words, laced with flattery, worked their charm on the crowd. Everyone loved to hear sweet talk—Frederick’s compliments ignited the people’s sense of justice, leading them to vocally denounce those from the Warren family.It seemed moral coercion wouldn't work on Carissa. She hadn’t even appeared to address the matter, and Rebecca realized her efforts were futile. With that, she had no choice but to leave in disgrace.Rebecca had initially planned to have Carissa return to the Warren family, but Barrett adamantly refused. Given the overwhelming gossip about Aurora, Rebecca then thought to create a commotion to redirect the public’s ire. She hoped that by stirring up trouble, the people would shift their criticism away from the Warren family, thus giving them a break from the public's scorn.She had hoped her antics would at least drag Carissa into a mess of accusations. Rebecca figured that if they confronted or pushed people around, the Duke of Northwatch's family wouldn
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 167
Rafael had secluded himself, refusing visitors for several days. During this time, many would-be guests had come knocking. However, he was unwilling to see any of them.When he left the palace, he put aside his usual cheerful demeanor with his elder brother. Rafael understood the meaning behind the royal edict.The order was clear: Carissa must marry within three months, or she would have to enter the palace as a concubine. Salvador was forcing him to make a choice.The jests and scoldings exchanged in the palace's study weren’t just idle chatter; each word carried hidden intentions.Whether Carissa entered the palace was of no real concern to Salvador. It was a matter of showcasing his power—whether to allow her to remain free or to summon her to the palace was just a matter of issuing an edict.Years earlier, Salvador had known of Rafael's feelings for Carissa. Before Rafael headed to the Southern Frontier battlefield, he had approached Melanie, asking her to delay Carissa’s m
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 168
Rafael often reminisced about the past when he and Salvador shared an open, candid relationship. In those days, any advice or guidance Salvador had to offer was direct and straightforward, without any need for deception.Luke recalled something, and said, "Your Highness, by His Majesty's grace, your mother will be moving into the estate in a few days. I’ve already arranged for Elysian Hall to be cleaned and furnished according to her specifications. The total cost came to thirty thousand silver coins."Rafael furrowed his brow. "Thirty thousand silver coins? What kind of furniture costs that much?"He decided to visit Elysian Hall himself. When he arrived, he saw that various types of peonies had been planted in the garden, and a special greenhouse had been constructed. Though it was unnecessary in the summer, it would be useful in winter.Rafael's frown deepened. "Have all the orchids been removed?"Luke followed behind Rafael, and answered cautiously, "They’ve all been relocated
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 169
Two days later, Dylan and Rafael's strategist, Jacob York, returned.It was raining heavily earlier, so Jacob had changed into a fresh set of clothes before he hurried to the study to see Rafael.Jacob was direct and to the point. “The king's intention is to strip you of your military command. Since you’re willing to relinquish it, then let it go. However, you mustn’t allow your marriage to be used as leverage. “The king knows you once sought to marry Lady Sinclair. He wants to use her as compensation, to ease his own conscience. However, I believe it is unnecessary. Once you surrender your command, request him to retract his edict. Whether or not you marry Lady Sinclair should be a matter between you and her, not tainted by the royal family's interference. “If the king inserts himself into the matter, it will complicate things and turn it into something more than just a marriage. Both you and Lady Sinclair will be put in a very awkward position.”Marriage should be purely abo
Bab terbaru
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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1571
Salvador didn't fare well along the long and tiring journey, his condition worsening with each passing day. Sebastian did what he could—applying needle treatment and using medicine—but all he could offer was temporary relief. As they pressed on, the king's condition only seemed to deteriorate further.Fortunately, Salvador was a man of remarkable willpower. Despite his suffering, he gritted his teeth and carried on, unwilling to give in. He could not afford to back down—not now.Eldermere Keep lay in the southern province of Mendoria, where the climate was mild and temperate, perfect for someone needing rest and recovery. Even though it was now winter, the air was neither cold nor biting, more akin to the gentler days of autumn.The locals knew little of Eldermere Keep, though they often spoke of a physician's office that was the largest in Mendoria, as big as the one in the capital, also called Arcane Sanctum. There were other keeps, but this one was renowned for its abundance of r
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1570
Before Salvador left the capital, Rafael had already become regent and taken on the required duties. With his great military achievements, he had earned respect from both civil and military officials. At first, no one questioned his authority, and many even held him in high regard.However, with Salvador now ill and traveling incognito, rumors began to spread within the palace, warning people to be wary of the regent. The fear was that, as Cecil was still so young, Rafael might take advantage of the situation and eventually replace him.As often the case, such suspicion and rumors spread like wildfire, fueled by the mouths of many. Consequently, a number of officials lost their previous respect for Rafael. They even began to disregard his orders, paying them little heed and carrying out his commands half-heartedly.Noticing this troubling shift, Davis felt a sense of urgency. He decided to speak with Patrick, the Minister of Justice, who was also Cecil's grandfather and the father o
