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Chapter 185
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 186
Carissa felt a strange sense of unease, though she couldn't quite put her finger on it—something like hostility, yet not quite. Especially after Salvador had ended his remarks with that enigmatic smile.What did he mean by she was already defending Rafael? It was baffling.She paused before speaking, "Your Majesty, in warfare, there are no absolutely foolproof decisions, especially during decisive battles. It's practically taking a gamble. Our strategy for attacking Simonton City was sound. Minor errors should be forgiven, considering we ultimately reclaimed the Southern Frontier and achieved victory."Salvador burst into hearty laughter. "I only asked a question or two. Look at you, so nervous. There's no need to worry. I was just asking out of curiosity."Carissa felt her back dampen with sweat.It was hardly a casual inquiry. Salvador had seemed so serious. It was almost as if he was ready to lay blame on someone!Holding Rafael accountable for the mistakes of his soldiers see
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 187
Victoria regarded her son for a while before speaking, "Your father had someone in his heart as well—Melanie. But because he saw Hector as a brother, whenever Melanie attended an event or visited the palace, your father would make himself scarce."That was his way of showing the utmost respect to Hector. In fact, Melanie never knew of your father's feelings, even after she passed."Salvador's expression froze momentarily, his smile slowly fading to be replaced by a serious demeanor."Mother, I understand your point."After a moment of silence, he asked, "Didn't you mind? You still treat Carissa so well."Victoria smiled gently, her expression serene. "Why would I mind? Aren't there many women in the palace already? Besides, I married him to be the crown princess, the queen, and now the queen dowager. If I were to expect true affection from the king, would that not be unreasonable?"As for your father, he was aware of his position. A king's responsibilities are to govern diligentl
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 188
Rafael remained silent.Was there really a difference between being called Marshal and being called Your Highness?"Why are you waiting here?" Carissa asked.Snapping back to the present, Rafael replied, "Oh, I wanted to see if my mom was causing you any trouble. She can be difficult to deal with, can't she? But don't worry. Once we're at my residence, she won't be as audacious as she is in the palace. After all, the people in my household will listen to me and to you, not necessarily to her."Carissa smiled. "She's not too difficult to deal with. She has caused some trouble, but her methods are… somewhat crude and manageable."Rafael tilted his head.Crude methods? That was an apt description. Helen knew nothing of subtlety. She had been pampered all her life. A tantrum or a sulk would usually get her what she wanted."She does lack finesse. I remember the harshest method she used against Lady Dakota when I lived in the palace. When Lady Dakota was pregnant with my seventh sist
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 189
"Really?" Rafael frowned.Eleanor, the grand princess, was the late king's sister, making her Rafael's aunt. He knew her character well.She was like a snake in the grass—sweet in appearance but venomous at heart. She was known for her tea parties and banquets, where she mingled with the capital's powerful families and secured many connections through social gatherings.Many noble families arranged marriages at her parties. If anyone had ever been truly wronged in her presence, it was undoubtedly Helen. Eleanor was skilled in manipulation and had committed many sinister acts.She was a sick-minded person. After giving birth to a daughter, she stopped having children and instead gathered many concubines for her husband. When the concubines gave birth, she took their children, then executed the concubines. Her methods were extremely cruel.Once, a concubine had argued with Eleanor, so she simply didn't want the concubine's child. After killing the concubine's child in front of her,
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 190
Eleanor's invitation did indeed arrive at Northwatch Estate. Also, the celebration was tomorrow, but the invitation was delivered only today.Clearly, there was no time to prepare a proper gift, so Carissa would have to choose something from the storeroom."Grand Princess Eleanor has always held a grudge against your family. When the late Madam Sinclair was still alive, Grand Princess Eleanor never invited her to any of her parties. Why has she invited you this time? Could it be that a crowd of gossipers is waiting for you?" said Lily, who was quite worried.Carissa set the invitation aside. "That's a certainty."She had heard about the past grievances between her parents and Eleanor. When she returned from Meadow Ridge after the deaths of her father and brothers, Carissa found out that Eleanor had sent her mother, Melanie, a "gift" that year.Eleanor had specifically found someone to carve a miniature sculpture. It was a small, intricately carved sculpture of a chastity belt that
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 191
Lily pursed her lips reluctantly. "This painting is so lifelike. It's as if the orchids are blooming right before our eyes. The orchid branches are strong, and the faint green buds are just beginning to sprout. It seems too perfect to be considered a discarded work. It would be a shame to waste it on Grand Princess Eleanor.""It's fine. Kyle loves painting orchids, so there are plenty of orchid paintings, so many that we don't even have space for them in the study. By the way, make sure to send one to the king as well," Carissa replied.Salvador greatly admired Kyle and had a collection of his calligraphy. However, he did not have any of Kyle's orchid paintings, which were worth a fortune. Since Carissa had them in abundance, presenting Kyle's work to Salvador would be a gesture of goodwill, and it would allow her to manage Rafael's connections.The questions Salvador asked at Serenity Palace had made her a bit uneasy. Thus, using Kyle's painting as a way to gauge the situation seem
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 192
Clenching her teeth, Carissa said to Lily, "Starting tonight, I want you to teach me embroidery. I need to make a perfect handkerchief."Mistakes made in youth must be corrected.Carissa could accept her own imperfections, but she could not accept that she had handed out subpar work to everyone.However, she was puzzled. While she could understand why her mother had kept her handkerchiefs, why would Rafael want to not only keep them, but also carry them around?There was a fleeting thought that she couldn't quite grasp. Did Rafael have a fondness for unattractive things? What peculiar taste he had!As the two senior maids organized the storeroom, Frederick took the opportunity to tell Carissa that Jason had sorted out the account books and wanted her to review them."Alright, leave them in the study. I'll look them over tonight," Carissa said.Frederick nodded. "The accounts for the farms and shops have also been organized. Jason has summarized the totals and provided detailed b
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 193
Lulu examined the outfit. "Moonlight white is fine. There's a subtle shade of blue that complements your skin tone. What about accessories? Should we add a strand of red coral?""No red," Carissa replied. "Keep it simple, not too grand."She selected a white pearl hairpin and paired it with two moonlight white silk ribbons."That's still quite plain," Lulu observed."Plain or not, we'll know once it's on," Carissa said.She went behind a partition screen to change into the outfit. When she emerged, she had styled her hair into a simple bun, secured with the silk ribbons and adorned with the white pearl pin.She twirled, asking her maids, "How do I look?"The girls were mesmerized. Even without makeup, Carissa resembled an ethereal fairy. The two silk ribbons in her hair added a significant touch of elegance to her moonlight white dress.Lulu quickly turned to Pearl. "Lip balm, earrings, perfumes, and pearl pendants—hurry!""Got it!" Pearl immediately got to work, gathering var
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1364
Thomas had already received word from his scouts. Several mysterious groups had gathered outside Nerovia and were now heading toward Valken.Long before this, he had received a report from Jacob. Jacob had warned him that Yuvan might feign surrender to lure them into the city for a trap, and then spring an ambush from within. Thomas knew well that Yuvan was nothing more than a pawn in Nicholas' game.With years of experience in intelligence and espionage, Thomas could piece together the situation with just a few key bits of information and devise a strategy accordingly.Homer and Felix had initially remained in the capital, but yesterday they had suddenly moved to join him outside Valken. Thomas had been surprised at first—after all, the capital should have been the most dangerous place. Why would the two of them be sent here?Felix explained that Carissa's mentor, Adrian, the leader of the Pathfinders Guild, had come to the capital, bringing with him many martial artists to aid
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1363
That evening, Samson returned with a scout and hastily reported, "Your Highness, Mr. Harper has successfully rallied our scattered troops and secured 500 warhorses from the Spencer family. He is making his way back now. If the pace holds, he will arrive in three days."Yuvan sprang to his feet, his heart pounding with excitement. "Is that true?""Absolutely, Your Highness. The scout is waiting outside. You may call him in to confirm.""Bring him in!" Yuvan sat back down, his pulse racing. At last, he had gathered all the forces—but the news of the Spencer family providing 500 warhorses caught him off guard. Since the fallout over Violet's incident, he had severed ties with the Spencer family. The scout entered, kneeling before Yuvan. "Your Highness, Mr. Harper sends word that the private army has assembled. Also, Mr. Murphy, one of Prince Nicholas' advisors, is leading 5,000 men and 500 warhorses in support. Prince Nicholas has one request—he wants the rescue of Prince Hayden."
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1362
Hayden clenched his fists, his anger and helplessness tightening his chest as he followed behind.The physician worked quickly, examining Sonny's injuries. Both of his legs were broken, three of his teeth were knocked out, and his face was riddled with fractures. Despite the pain that twisted his expression, he still grinned at Hayden, forcing a smile through gritted teeth.He tried to assure Hayden with a look that said he would be fine.Hayden turned away, his heart aching. The man who had stood by his side for so many years now lay in such a state. Fury surged within him, but there was nothing he could do.Back in Nerovia, he had ordered an extra emblem to be made, just in case the day ever came when Nicholas stole the original to mobilize Hayden's forces. If Hayden noticed in time, someone could use the duplicate emblem to stop Nicholas.Hayden hadn't expected it to serve its purpose this way, though.The chaos of the riverworks project was swiftly quelled. Cameron was arrest
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1361
As dawn broke, Adrian led them to the Glimmering Tower. It was then that Carissa realized they weren't the only ones who had arrived—many guild leaders and elders were present as well. Even Violet and Bun's mentor had come.When Violet spotted her mentor Conrad, she gasped in surprise and rushed toward him. "Sage Conrad, what brings you here? You didn't even send word beforehand!"Conrad smiled warmly as he looked at his beloved apprentice, indulgence in his voice. "I heard you were guarding the capital. Naturally, I had to come and lend you a hand.""Sage Conrad, you're too kind. I'll get another villa for you once we're done here," Violet said, linking her arm with his, grinning widely.Conrad scowled lightly, feigning annoyance. "Why would I need more villas from you? No more, I tell you. However, I did hear about a hot spring at Solitude Peak. I thought of buying it, so your fellow apprentices can soak and strengthen their bodies."Violet nodded enthusiastically. "I'll buy i
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1360
The black-clad assailants' Lightfoot Skills were extraordinary, and they scattered in all directions. Adrian could have pursued one of them, but catching all of them was impossible.However, he chose not to pursue anyone at all. Emerging from the shadows, his hand darted out and grabbed Carissa by the ear, twisting it until she yelped in pain. "So bold of you, wasn't it? To engage without proper defenses? Do you think you're invincible? Haven't you heard the saying that there's always someone stronger out there?"Carissa shrieked and flailed in protest as the lamps were lit by Jacob, illuminating the courtyard and revealing the bloodstains on everyone's bodies.Only then did Adrian notice the wounds on Carissa. Yet instead of softening, his grip on her ear tightened, and he hissed, "You couldn't guess what Nicholas was planning? And you didn't think to write for reinforcements from Meadow Ridge? Are you so arrogant now that you've forgotten basic caution? Just wait until your mart
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1359
Hayden gestured for her to lower the sword. "Not tonight. Neither side is ready."Chaya frowned, confused. "Why? Didn't you say Mr. Russell was formidable? If he's taking action, surely he can capture Prince Nicholas?""He won't capture him," Hayden replied, rubbing his temples. "General Farrell has Valken surrounded, but he hasn't launched an attack because he knows Mr. Murphy has already undermined Prince Yuvan's authority. "A portion of Valken's population has joined the so-called rebel forces. If the capital falls now, the officials in Valken and Nerovia will find an excuse, under the court's banner, to slaughter the townsfolk. That would spark even larger uprisings. That's why Lady Carissa can't act prematurely."Chaya hastily tossed the sword aside. "And why isn't it the right time for Prince Nicholas, then?""It's simple," Hayden said. "He needs Mr. Murphy to first defeat General Farrell in a decisive victory. Once General Farrell is dealt with, he'll move on to General Mu
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1358
By the early hours of the morning, the rain had lessened to a gentle drizzle, leaving the air cooler and the night more serene. The quiet respite lulled many into a deeper, more peaceful sleep.Seven or eight shadowy figures darted through the curfewed city, their movements light and swift. They barely left a trace as they touched down on rooftops, their steps silent.They arrived at the Capital Guard headquarters. The outer guards had already retreated for the night, leaving only Carissa and her companions waiting in the main hall, tense and alert.With a quick exchange of glances, the group gripped their weapons. The assassins had arrived!The dim light of the hall flickered, and as the black-clad figures descended, a gust of wind extinguished the lamps. Darkness enveloped the room, plunging it into an impenetrable black where even an outstretched hand became invisible.Amid the darkness, the faint sound of breathing and the subtle rhythm of movements became the only clues to
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1357
The damp, oppressive heat of summer seemed to weigh heavily on the spirit, stoking an inexplicable irritation in the air.Hayden, clearly affected by the weather, barely touched his dinner. After a few cursory bites, he set his cutlery down and announced that he was heading back to the study to practice his calligraphy to clear his mind. He gestured for Chaya to follow, and the two left the room.Before departing, Chaya made sure to take two heaping plates of snacks with her. After all, she wasn't about to let herself go hungry.Nicholas, still in his Gordon disguise, watched Hayden leave but made no move to stop him. It didn't matter where Hayden went—his every step was being monitored. Besides, Nicholas had far more pressing matters to attend to tonight.Back in his room, Nicholas locked the door behind him and methodically prepared for the night's mission. He changed into his stealth attire, then sat before a mirror. Opening a small wooden box on the table, he revealed an array
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1356
By evening, tensions finally erupted.The Waterworks Department had stationed soldiers to oversee the workers, ensuring work continued on schedule. Yesterday's heavy rain had halted all progress, but with today's rare overcast skies and no rain, Cameron ordered the workers to make up for lost time. In fact, he demanded they finish the project three days ahead of schedule.The workers were already agitated, and they refused. Tempers flared, and heated arguments broke out between them and the Waterworks Department officials. In a fit of rage, Cameron picked up a club and struck one of the workers. That single blow ignited an uncontrollable fury among the workers. Over a hundred men turned on the officials, attacking them in a chaotic melee.Fortunately, Carissa had already stationed people nearby to keep an eye on the situation. Word was immediately sent to Max.Max was wary, suspecting this might be a calculated ploy by Nicholas. However, based on their investigation, not all th
