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Chapter 251
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 252
Carissa knew all too well the excruciating pain of broken bones, having experienced it in her youth. Even with pain-relieving decoctions or acupuncture treatment, the agony remained sharp and penetrating.Carissa felt her heart break as she asked, "What about the addictive drugs he was using before? Is that still a serious issue?"Sebastian replied, "The drug he was taking is called Peony Bliss. It is indeed addictive, but considering his current condition, he seems to be managing well. Did he experience any discomfort during the journey back to the capital?"Carissa recalled that Ryan seemed to have had a few episodes along the way, but he endured them. After that, there were no signs of any episodes. She said, "It didn't happen much. The last time it happened, he was able to endure it. Also, His Highness mentioned that Ryan had severe episodes while in Eldoria—he was hitting walls and hurting himself. I didn't see such extreme behavior when I arrived."Sebastian sighed deeply.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 253
As Carissa saw Sebastian out, he sighed and said, "Being captured by human traffickers is undeniably unfortunate, but escaping the massacre of your entire family is a great stroke of luck amidst the misfortune."Carissa didn't share his view.Had Ryan delivered the candied apples to Valor Estate as planned, she would have personally ensured his safe return, though it would have likely meant staying a night at Northwatch Estate. If she had been there when the Westhaven spies attacked, she might have been able to save some of them, and the massacre might not have been so complete.So, her hatred for the traffickers was deep and all-consuming. She hoped to see them utterly eradicated, and not a single one of them spared.After sending Sebastian on his way, Carissa asked for a carriage to be prepared. She intended to take Ryan to the palace to meet the king and the queen dowager. Following that, they would visit the Klein family.New clothes had been made for Ryan, as only a few of hi
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 254
After leaving the palace, Carissa helped Ryan onto the carriage and headed toward Highcrest Estate. It was already evening, and the men of the Klein family would be finishing their duties and returning home.Inside the carriage, Ryan used Carissa's palm as a writing surface. He scrawled, [Going to Grandpa's house?]Carissa nodded and replied, "Yes, we're going to your grandfather's house. Don't you miss them?"Ryan nodded and wrote a single word, [Yes!]Yet, his expression was tinged with worry. The child was sensitive, and the Klein family's disbelief in his return made him fear they might not want to see him.Carissa noticed his anxiety and reassured him, "Ryan, don't worry. Your grandparents, uncles, aunts, and everyone else are very eager to see you. They just don't believe you're still alive. Once they see you, they'll be very happy."Ryan leaned against Carissa, his sharp little chin raised slightly. He opened his mouth, trying to make a sound, but nothing came out. He lo
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 255
Carissa anticipated such a misunderstanding. While she had previously said she understood, in reality, she didn't fully comprehend.It was just like when she had rushed to Eldoria upon receiving Rafael's letter. Despite her efforts to temper her hopes, she couldn't help but go and see for herself.So, hearing Anthony's words now, her temper flared. She turned, threw back the curtain, and lifted Ryan up. The two stood before Anthony. With a cold voice, Carissa said, "At least take a good look. Throughout the journey, Ryan wrote messages in my hand, worried that you might reject him. I reassured him that you wouldn't."Anthony was reluctant, but he instinctively glanced at the child she was holding.In that one glance, he realized just how wrong he had been.In that brief moment, his heart almost stopped.The resemblance was undeniable. Although Ryan was now gaunt and not as chubby and adorable as before, the similarity was unmistakable.Anthony's lips trembled, and his eyes q
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 256
The other Klein family members helped Diana lay down on the ground and elevated her legs, ensuring she was breathing properly. Then they fanned her and waited until she finally came to.Upon waking, Diana continued to cry, "Oh, Lord, how could you allow this child to suffer so much? The Sinclair family was full of loyal and brave souls—why did they meet such a terrible end? Lord, you're unjust! You're too cruel!"Carissa couldn’t bear to hear such heart-wrenching lamentations. She hurried outside, her tears flowing freely. In the past, she had managed to hold back her emotions. But now, the floodgates had opened, and all the tears she had previously stifled came pouring out.Every Klein family member present had their turn to look at Ryan, and then he was taken to Ingrid's room. Fortunately, she had been given medication beforehand. Seeing Ryan as a mute and a cripple broke her heart. He was her great-grandson, whom she had cherished so dearly. How could he have been reduced to
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 257
Ingrid didn't voice her concerns aloud, but everyone understood that she was worried Helen might make things difficult for Ryan.Although the Klein family had rarely attended social gatherings over the past two years, they were still somewhat aware of outside events. They knew about Carissa's situation, though they chose not to delve deeply into it.It was common knowledge that Helen was not entirely pleased with Carissa as a daughter-in-law. Bringing Ryan along might only increase Helen's displeasure."I will always prioritize Ryan's well-being. If Helen cannot accept him, then I will return to Northwatch Estate. I assure you, Ryan will not suffer any grievances," Carissa said.However, her assurances did little to ease the concern of those present. After all, a woman marrying a second time and not receiving the favor of her mother-in-law would undoubtedly face daily challenges. Even if Rafael was fair and just, the strain between mother and wife could become burdensome over time.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 258
The next day, the Klein family sent over Ryan's favorite dishes. They also mentioned that the ladies of the house were busy with their needlework, making clothes, shoes, and socks for him.The Klein family was clearly showing their love and care for Ryan through their actions.Ryan finally felt at ease. His maternal grandparent's family didn't despise him. In fact, they were genuinely concerned about him.Today, Sebastian personally came over again, saying he wanted to check Ryan's pulse one more time, just in case he had missed something.Given his medical expertise, Sebastian had already understood everything from the diagnosis the day before. His thoroughness could only be attributed to how much he cared about the bloodline of the Duke of Northwatch's family.After Sebastian left, Rafael arrived with Dylan in tow. Rafael told Carissa that he was there to visit Ryan and to bond with him.Ryan was thrilled to see Rafael. He even showed him the inkpots Anthony had gifted him, and
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 259
Carissa blinked. "So you're my junior in the guild?"Rafael's handsome face stiffened, and he turned away, still trying to maintain his composure. "I'm not really an apprentice of the Pathfinders Guild. My master made it clear—I'm his private student, but I'm not formally part of the guild."Carissa smiled, her eyes sparkling. "My dear junior, you're just deceiving yourself. Sage Everett is part of the Pathfinders Guild, so as his apprentice, how could you not be? When did you join, dear junior?"Rafael tried to maintain his nonchalance and smile, but he stubbornly changed the subject. "We were just talking about taking Ryan to see Theodore. When do you plan to go?"Carissa propped her chin on her hand, blinking as she looked at him. "My dear junior, your guild senior and Ryan will go tomorrow."For some reason, now that she knew he was from the same guild, Carissa felt completely at ease, letting herself be much more playful around him.Rafael was silent momentarily and rolled h
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1556
During her investigation, Carissa learned a troubling piece of information from a young chamberlain. The caltrop Cecil had been playing with had indeed gone missing, and a palace maid had picked it up.The chamberlain had witnessed the moment the caltrop was picked up, and recognized the maid in question as Clara, who served Penelope, one of Salvador's concubines.It was clear to Carissa that Penelope had no reason to harm Connor. Her relationship with Grace and Sylvia was rather indifferent. Thus, Carissa formally petitioned Victoria for permission to conduct an inquiry within the harem and see if Clara was secretly loyal to someone else.As expected, Carissa uncovered that Clara had entered the palace years earlier as a low-ranking maid, assigned to laundry duty and forced to endure a hard life. She was from the same hometown as Lyra, one of Grace's trusted maids.Lyra helped Clara by making arrangements with the head maid, sending her to Penelope's residence to work as a cleaner
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1555
While Kylie was still fervently attempting to bring Cecil to Everspring Palace, Carissa arrived."I have long been waiting for you to ask me whether Prince Connor said anything before he passed, Your Majesty. Yet, you never did," she said, looking at the queen.Kylie sharply turned her head toward her, her expression filled with resistance. "There is no need to speak of it. He would have blamed me, for he was always angry with me.""On the contrary, he said that he loved you very much," Carissa replied.A bitter smile curled on Kylie's lips. She clearly didn't believe Carissa's words."He is gone. Why would you make up such things to make me sad?" she said.Carissa looked at the clear finger marks on Kylie's face and her swollen, red eyes. The pain of losing her son should have been a wound to the soul itself, yet here she was, scheming to bring Cecil to her side.Was it for revenge? Or was she trying to secure leverage, pushing Cecil to become the crown prince and crushing Grac
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1554
Victoria couldn't hold back her tears upon hearing those words. Connor was a dutiful child, and it was unfortunate that Kylie remained blind to that.Night had fully fallen by the time they set off.Kyle and Isaac, accompanied by Sebastian's apprentices, escorted them. The journey had been well-prepared by Rafael. The carriage wheels had been altered, and several layers of soft padding had been laid inside.Sebastian had also ensured that Connor's injuries were properly secured, wrapping him in several layers. Each layer was padded with cotton, both to keep him warm and to reduce the damage from the bumps during the journey.The bitter cold had driven everyone indoors, leaving the streets deserted. Snow fell in a steady, gentle stream, blanketing the cobblestones in a thin layer of frost. The carriage wheels crunched over the icy coating, the soft sound a contrast to the stillness of the night.Salvador watched for a long time, well past the point when the convoy had disappeared f
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1553
Connor had endured for three days, a feat that even Sebastian had not anticipated. Given the severity of his injuries, it was highly unlikely that he would survive past the second day, yet he defied expectations and lingered on.As had been mentioned earlier, his survival meant that the internal bleeding had ceased. Though the journey ahead wasn't ideal, it was their only option. They had to set out.Over the past three days, Victoria and Salvador had scarcely slept, remaining by Connor's side the entire time.Connor was only awake for brief moments. When he was, his face was pale from the excruciating pain, leaving him unable to speak. But when he opened his eyes and saw his grandmother and father, it seemed to give him the strength to keep going.He had no idea how much his determination had moved everyone. For three days, each time he woke, he endured the pain, only to drift back to sleep after the needle treatment. Asleep or awake, the only thing that filled his mind and dreams
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1552
Keith sighed. "Lady Sylvia, surely Prince Cecil must be allowed to speak for himself. Even if he is innocent, it should be him who says so.""There's no need for him to speak. What I say is the truth," Sylvia declared firmly.Her gaze shifted to Carissa, her eyes glinting with an icy, cutting hostility. "I know what you seek, Lady Carissa. You wish to satisfy your duty and claim merits. And since I have never treated you kindly, you will believe that Cecil and I are guilty, even when the evidence is not so clear. But I won't allow you to succeed. I won't allow you to harm my son. I will make my stand with my own life, if necessary."As soon as Sylvia finished speaking, she reached for the scissors on the table. With a swift, deliberate motion, she plunged it into her own throat.Carissa had already been on alert, but she didn't expect the concubine's actions to be so immediate and without any hesitation. By the time she reached Sylvia, the woman had already removed the scissors, an
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1551
By the time they arrived at Laurel Palace, the sky had darkened.Laurel Palace stood in an isolated corner of the palace district, separated from the Cold Palace by only a single wall. The bitter wind howled through the trees, its wailing like the cries of restless spirits.As Carissa led Victoria's head chamberlain, Keith, along the narrow path, she took note of the wild grass lining the way. Most of it was dry and brittle, with only the occasional pale green shoot clinging to life. Winter in the north was unforgiving. It allowed no sign of growth, just as the abandoned Cold Palace permitted no trace of hope.Ordinarily, Keith did not accompany Carissa on visits to the other residences. But this time, at Victoria's command, he had insisted on following her to Sylvia's chambers. Carissa understood the queen dowager's reasoning. Keith had served by her side the longest—if there was scheming afoot in the harem, none could decipher it better than he.It seemed Sylvia had been waiting
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1550
Grace seemed momentarily taken aback, her grip tightening on the handkerchief. "What is it, Your Grace? Do not hesitate to speak plainly.""Not long ago, the harem was abuzz with rumors. First, it was said that Lady Sylvia was responsible for Lady Jeanette's miscarriage. Then, the rumor shifted, claiming it was Queen Kylie. You've overseen the harem for so long, Lady Grace. You must have some idea of where these rumors originated and who might have spread them, yes?" Carissa asked.Caught off guard by the question, Grace's sorrowful expression stiffened for a moment as she exchanged a furtive glance with Lyra. But she quickly masked the slip and regained her composure."The palace has always been rife with gossip. There is no need to dwell on such matters. Perhaps you might focus on the investigation into Prince Connor's murder, Your Grace?" she replied."The queen dowager has ordered me to investigate thoroughly, starting from Lady Jeanette's miscarriage. So, while the case of Pri
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1549
Carissa paid a visit to Jeanette.Though the concubine did not explicitly say that Sylvia was responsible for the loss of her child, she did remark, "Those who commit wicked deeds will always face retribution. No one can escape it."The words seemed not only directed at Sylvia, but also at Kylie.As Carissa prepared to leave after questioning her, Jeanette suddenly spoke up, asking, "Your Grace, was it truly impossible to save Prince Connor?"Carissa assumed Jeanette's words were born of sympathy for Connor. But when she glanced at the concubine, she saw no trace of sorrow in her eyes, only a subtle glint of something resembling satisfaction.It was an emotion she clearly tried to conceal but could not, as though Jeanette had achieved a long-sought revenge. Carissa chose not to respond, instead turning on her heel to leave.Kylie had caused Jeanette's loss, so it was no surprise that she wouldn't wish for Connor's recovery.Carissa couldn't fault Jeanette for her feelings. How c
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1548
Kylie had always looked down on Grace.The latter's family lacked distinction, and her beauty could scarcely be considered remarkable. Her rise to the position of higher-ranked concubine seemed nothing more than the result of fortunate circumstances, particularly her giving birth to Caden.Kylie guessed that Grace also must be aware of her limited connections and support, which was why she had long exercised caution and humility. However, there were times when she could not resist harboring a few selfish thoughts. Yet, she dared not plot too aggressively.Such had been the case when Grace had sheltered Jeanette—likely in an attempt to solidify her position and strengthen her influence in the harem by using the other woman as a pawn. Despite Grace's attentions, Jeanette had remained ungrateful, resenting the way she constantly placed Caden in Salvador's presence.Grace always had a habit of making things harder for herself, which was why Kylie had never held her in much regard.Now
