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Chapter 239
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 240
Carissa pulled the child from Rafael's arms and held him tightly to her chest.It was heartbreaking to see that the boy was nothing but skin and bones. A foul odor emanated from him—a mixture of decay, filth, and possibly old blood. His hair clung in matted clumps, adding to the overall stench.Yet, Carissa embraced him as if he were the most precious treasure in the world, her tears streaming down her face uncontrollably.The child, now in her arms, ceased his struggles. He lay still, like a broken doll, his tears streaking through the grime on his face, creating yellowish trails. Gone was the fierce resistance he had shown Rafael. Now, the boy seemed lifeless, his eyes staring blankly despite the tears.Seeing this, Rafael's long-held anxiety eased as he confirmed that the child was indeed of the Sinclair bloodline. It was a relief to know that a trace of the Sinclair family remained, though Rafael was puzzled about how Ryan had ended up in the hands of traffickers after escaping
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 241
Ryan did indeed wake up in the middle of the night. Although he had stirred a few times earlier, he had only been half-conscious and had slowly closed his eyes again when he saw Carissa.Late at night, the room was brightly lit. While Ryan was asleep, Carissa had used hot water to wash his face. Though his small face was painfully thin, he still bore a striking resemblance to his father, Nathan.When Ryan woke up, he cried again but managed to smile at Carissa through his tears. Due to how thin he was, his dimples were more pronounced.Carissa helped him bathe, immersing the boy in the tub and carefully washing his hair. She gently applied olive oil to untangle the matted strands before rinsing them clean.After his bath, Ryab was dressed in new clothes bought for a seven-year-old. The clothes were slightly oversized, but at least he looked neat and tidy. When the food was served from the kitchen, his eyes lit up. Instinctively, he grabbed a piece of meat and stuffed it into his mo
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 242
The words were so crooked and difficult to decipher that Carissa had to spend a long time making sense of them.When she finally figured them out, she looked up at Ryan with swollen eyes, tears streaming down her face once more. The words felt like daggers piercing her heart, causing her to curl up slightly in pain.In the days before the massacre, she had returned to Northwatch Estate and discussed the Victory Pass battle with Melanie, who was worried about Dominic. She feared her father might meet the same fate as her husband and sons. Carissa had tried to comfort her, but her own anxiety about her grandfather and her concern for her mother was palpable.Outside Melanie's courtyard, Carissa had bumped into Ryan. He had lifted his small face and asked his aunt if she was unhappy.Carissa had smiled and ruffled his hair, saying, "I'm a little bit unhappy, but I'll cheer up soon. Don't worry, Ryan."At the time, she had been preoccupied with her own worries and had given a somewhat
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 243
After he finished writing, Ryan was exhausted. Carissa urged him to rest and watched as he fell asleep, unable to bring herself to leave his side. She was terrified that if she stepped away, the fragile dreamlike peace she felt would shatter, and Ryan would be gone when she returned to reality.Her heart ached to see the child suffer so much. Watching him limp painfully as he walked felt like a thousand needles piercing her heart.Rafael had already begun arranging their return to the capital. Ryan needed to see Sebastian for treatment as soon as possible, no time could be wasted. At seven years old, Ryan was still as small as he had been at five, and it was unclear what other poisons he might have been exposed to. It was difficult for any of them to feel at ease until Ryan was examined thoroughly.Rafael had also instructed the Eldorian governor to submit an urgent report to the king on his behalf, detailing the situation. The preservation of even a small part of the Duke of Northw
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 244
Once the boy had fallen into a deep sleep, Carissa went to find Rafael and showed him the note Ryan had written.The prince's expression was complex as he read the note. Did he resemble those thugs who had beaten Ryan? Perhaps so. After years on the battlefield, he had developed a certain harshness.Rafael sighed deeply. "We'll take it slow. I'll try to be more gentle and smile at him more often."Ryan needed healing, both physically and emotionally."You've worked hard throughout this journey," Carissa said.Her gratitude towards Rafael was beyond mere words. However, there was something she needed to clarify.She removed a hairpin from her hair and used it to adjust the wick of a lantern. The small flame flickered, casting a warm light over her gaunt face and pale lips.She spoke softly, "Given Ryan's condition, he'll need me for at least two or three more years. If our marriage is to proceed, I'll need to bring him to your estate with me. I can't leave him alone at Northwatch
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 245
That night, when they stopped at an inn, Rafael helped Carissa out of the carriage.Summoning his courage, Ryan climbed out after them, trembling all over. He positioned himself between them, his tiny arms outstretched as he tried to shield Carissa from Rafael, glaring at him with hostility.Fear gripped the child—his skinny legs shook uncontrollably, his lips quivered, and he made soft whimpering noises as he tried to drive Rafael away.Both Rafael and Carissa exchanged bewildered glances.What was going on? Was their approach having the opposite effect?"Oh!" Carissa slapped her forehead, realizing the reason.Ryan didn't know she was no longer Barrett's wife, and was unaware of her upcoming marriage to Rafael.That night, aunt and nephew sat by candlelight and had a deep conversation.Carissa knew she could no longer treat Ryan as a mere child. After two years of living on the streets and begging for food, he would understand more than she might expect if she explained thing
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 246
The next day, Rafael appeared refreshed, though there were dark circles under his eyes.Carissa found it strange how he managed to look so lively despite obviously not having slept well. Aside from the dark circles, his face and eyes actually had a radiant quality.After talking with Ryan the night before, Ryan was now less fearful and wary of Rafael. Occasionally, he would lift the curtain to sneak a look at Rafael’s back.Was Rafael like his grandfather, Hector? If so, he must be really impressive—he only fought enemies and never harmed ordinary people.So there was no need to be afraid of him.Ryan kept reassuring himself this way, all the way through their journey. Gradually, Rafael became as familiar and trusted in Ryan’s eyes as his grandfather or father. Moreover, Rafael would soon become his future uncle by marriage, a close relative.By the time they arrived in Greenbrook County, Ryan had even started signaling Rafael and was bold enough to let Rafael hold his hand while
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 247
Jeremiah wiped away his tears. "It’s good that he's alive. That's the most important part."Then, he stood and bowed deeply. "I've lost my composure, Your Majesty. Please excuse me.""I was also close to losing my composure, Jeremiah. Who wouldn't be moved by such news?" Salvador said with a broad smile.He then recalled something, and quickly ordered, "Derek, go to the Klein family's residence or look for the Marquis of Highcrest at the Royal Citadel. Inform him of this matter so he and his family can share in the joy."Derek, who had been dabbing at his eyes, immediately replied, "Understood, Your Majesty. I’ll go right away."With a heart full of genuine happiness, Derek left. The survival of the Duke of Northwatch's family brought him true joy. Melanie had treated him with kindness, and he was more eager than anyone to see her family prosper.As Jeremiah watched Derek leave, he was filled with a myriad of thoughts. Despite having a pile of official duties awaiting him, he was
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1547
Sitting in front of her vanity table, Sylvia suddenly recalled that the dress she had once asked her mother to order from Camila had been delivered. She had intended to wear it at the New Year's Eve banquet.The dress was a rich shade of sunset yellow, embroidered with delicate camellia flower blossoms. Charming and vivid, the hem of the skirt flowed in graceful waves, the brightness of its color giving it an air of both beauty and refinement.Sylvia asked Heidi to bring the dress over and help her into it. She gazed into the mirror, entranced by her own reflection. While doing so, she noted that although she looked a little haggard, she remained as stunning as ever. Her skin was still pale and smooth, free from the slightest sign of age or fatigue.Her slender, pale fingers traced the intricate embroidery as she murmured softly to herself, "Ms. Moore's needlework is indeed extraordinary. This dress surpasses even the finest dress I own. How truly exquisite."Heidi knelt at her sid
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1546
The next morning, Rafael announced Connor’s death, leaving the entire court in shock and mourning."His Majesty is overcome with grief and has fallen ill. For the next few days, matters regarding the kingdom will be handled by myself and Mr. Murray. The arrangements for Prince Connor's funeral will be overseen by the Royal Management Department and the Protocol Department," Rafael said solemnly.Malcolm staggered, barely keeping his balance. His eyes were bloodshot from a sleepless night. Even though he had mentally prepared himself, the news still hit him hard.The news reached the inner palace at the same time. Since returning last night, Kylie had been wailing inconsolably, demanding to see Connor. Upon hearing the dreadful news, she fainted once more. Thankfully, a royal physician had been stationed at Everspring Palace and was able to revive her.Once the queen was conscious again, her screams echoed throughout the entire area.At Iridescent Palace, Grace felt a mix of relief
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1545
Salvador announced his decision before asking Rafael about the investigation.The king knew the colt wouldn't go wild for no reason. He had asked about the horses before—some had a bit of a temper, but the children had already tamed them.Rafael didn't hide anything and handed over the caltrop. "Someone placed this under the saddle. When the saddle was empty, the thorn caused only a mild discomfort to the horse. But once Prince Connor got on, the sharp spikes stabbed into the horse's flesh, causing it to go berserk from the pain."Salvador's gaze grew cold as he looked at Carissa. "Did no one inspect the saddles beforehand?"Carissa hurriedly responded, "Your Majesty, we checked thoroughly. The horses were under constant guard, and aside from the three princes and Ryan, no one was allowed near them. They led their own horses; no one else handled them during the journey."Victoria's expression was equally grim. "I gave strict orders to the guards. The horses, the three princes, and
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1544
Salvador's question hung heavy in the air, and for a long moment, Sebastian remained silent. His brow furrowed as he pondered, considering every possibility, weighing the odds.The only sounds that filled the room were strained, shallow breaths and the pounding of hearts, creating a silence so profound it was suffocating and seemed to echo with despair.At last, Sebastian slowly said, "There isn't really a solution. At best, there's a desperate gamble. But the chances of success… are very, very low.""Tell us. Just say it," Victoria urged, even more anxious than Salvador.Sebastian let out a deep sigh. "Even this gamble depends on him surviving the next three days. If he makes it through, I'll take him to Eldermere Keep. There, we will soak him in a brew made from the Everbind Herb, which grows only on those grounds. It might save his life. But the chances are slim. He may not last long enough to even get there.""Can't we gather the Everbind Herb and bring it here? How would we m
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1543
Connor was transferred to a smaller palace within the royal gardens. It was impossible to return him to the main palace at the moment, with the only choice being to treat him nearby.As for his condition, everyone could guess by looking at Sebastian's face. It seemed like it wasn't looking good.Rafael had the room cleared of any unnecessary witnesses, though he did not yet report the findings of the investigation. There were still questions to be answered, and the search for answers continued.All the concubines, as well as Kylie, returned to the main palace. The queen had initially refused to leave her son's side, adamant in her decision to stay with him. But upon seeing Connor's condition, she fainted once more. It was then that Salvador gave the order to have her escorted away.Ryan had also resisted leaving. He wouldn't abandon his friend, no matter the circumstances, and insisted on remaining at his side. Seeing the boy's resolve, Rafael allowed him to stay.Salvador remaine
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1542
The guards were unable to restrain Kylie, who rushed past the partition screens. One glance at her blood-soaked son was enough to make her release a piercing scream of horror before collapsing in a faint.Thankfully, royal physicians were also present. The servants quickly ushered the queen out, allowing a royal physician to attend to her. Once revived, Kylie's sobs were unrestrained, her cries echoing with raw anguish.Leading some men, Rafael took swift action to restore order. He intercepted the frenzied horse and set the wheels of investigation in motion, determined to uncover what had caused such madness.Inside the makeshift room, Salvador knelt beside Connor. As his trembling hands gently brushed the bloodied face of his son, his palms became stained with crimson.Telling the king to move aside, Sebastian quickly administered needle treatment, meant to simply keep Connor alive for a little longer. The priority now was to stop the bleeding in the eldest prince's head.The bo
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1541
Carissa ended up with a mouthful of dust. The sandy ground was nothing like the grassy fields. It had no beauty at all, just clouds of dust flying everywhere. Even standing inside the racetrack, she could hardly see who was in the lead.It looked like Joseph's youngest son, Ingram Carter.As the horses cleared the hurdles, it became clear that it was indeed Ingram. His horse had pulled ahead by a full length, and he continued to extend his lead with impressive speed.While lively, the race was not a formal contest. It was merely a display to flatter the royal princes, so the position of first place held little significance.None of the riders were willing to push themselves too hard, lest they raise the princes' anxiety by excelling too greatly. Thus, the others refrained from catching up. However, the pace was swift, even if it was not their peak performance.By the time the current riders reached the third lap, Ryan and the three princes were preparing to mount their horses. Onc
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1540
Carissa was especially busy today. Her presence was felt throughout the palace grounds, as she hurriedly moved from one task to the next. Now, she was back at the racetrack, overseeing the arrangements and ensuring everything was in order.The equestrian competition was set to begin shortly. A large group of military officers and young men from noble families had already gathered outside the track. All of them held their horses, eagerly awaiting their turn.The event itself was straightforward—each rider was to complete three laps around the track. At intervals, two-foot-high hurdles would be placed in their path, and each rider would need to leap their horse over the barriers without knocking them down. The winner would be the first to complete all three laps.In truth, calling it a "competition" was somewhat of an exaggeration.For well-trained horses and skilled riders, the two-foot barriers posed little challenge. But the height had been chosen specifically for the three royal
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1539
The stables had already been thoroughly inspected. The horses were fed and groomed, ready for the day's festivities. The four children chattered excitedly, each tending to their own mount while exchanging lively remarks about the grand occasion.Despite Sylvia's fall from favor, Cecil seemed entirely unaffected. His face was bright with a cheerful smile.Naturally, Sylvia was present as well. No matter how she was treated within the harem, she remained, in the eyes of the public, Cecil's mother and an esteemed concubine of the kingdom.However, Jeanette had been too unwell to make the journey and had remained behind.Leading their horses out for a short ride, Cecil decided to test himself. Previously, he had always required assistance to mount. Today, he attempted the feat alone. To his delight, he succeeded in swinging himself onto his horse's back without aid.His face lit up with triumph. "Connor, Caden, Ryan! Look at me! I did it all by myself!"His exuberance was infectious.
