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Chapter 303
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 304
As Helen stepped into the main hall, she noticed that Salvador, Jeremiah, and many high-ranking officials were already there. Even Rafael was engaged in conversation with a handsome young man dressed in a blue coat.The moment they saw her enter, everyone, including the king, rose to their feet and greeted her.Helen’s mood instantly brightened. While she was accustomed to being revered by the other ladies, she rarely had the chance to interact with the men of the court. Now, with even the king and the prime minister paying their respects to her, she felt a surge of pride, nearly to the point of overwhelming vanity.At that moment, she completely forgot the frustrations she had harbored during the carriage ride. After returning everyone’s greetings and gestures of respect, she was promptly escorted to the seat of honor.It felt amazing.Although Helen had lived a life of unparalleled prestige, never before had she been honored in such a manner—being greeted by the court ministers
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 305
Carissa appreciated the sentiment, and joked with a smile, "Since everyone loves Kyle's paintings so much, you'd probably all be complaining about me behind my back if I said I wouldn't sell them.""We wouldn't dare," said Davis, the Defense Minister, with a laugh. Then he said loudly, "Even if you don't sell them, we wouldn't complain about you, General Sinclair. I'll be the first to take issue with whoever dares do that!"What a joke!How could one criticize such a talented young general? Anyone who did would be in trouble with the Ministry of Defense!The noblewomen outside exchanged glances. They were aware that Carissa had achieved military merits, but she was still a woman. How many men truly held her in high regard?Though Davis' words seemed like a joke, his expression was serious.The ladies who had once spoken ill of Carissa with Eleanor now felt a pang of regret. If their disparaging words reached Carissa's ears and offended her, they might have caused trouble for th
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 306
The ladies present today all saw how Carissa stole the spotlight. Even though they were envious, they understood that Kyle was protecting her with his reputation.With Kyle's favor, Carissa was bound to be highly regarded by the civil officials. For example, someone like Trevor, who valued art above all else, would likely seek more interaction with Carissa if he wished to maintain a connection with Kyle.As for the king, the prime minister, and the defense minister, their attitudes today showed their high regard for Carissa, and this respect was not solely due to Kyle's influence.Everyone had to admit that Carissa, once dismissed and devalued, had transformed into a favored figure in the capital.After the paintings were purchased, Ryan was brought out to pay his respects to the king and the others. Carissa had deliberately shown Ryan's face, highlighting him as the future head of the Duke of Northwatch's household.Though small in stature, Ryan stood straight and proud, evoking
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 307
After the art exhibition concluded, the king, accompanied by the high-ranking officials, left in high spirits. The ladies also took their leave. Given today's events, the Duke of Northwatch's household had likely solidified its position in the capital. Even Salvador himself had attended, which was a considerable honor.As Heather prepared to depart, she felt a pang of dissatisfaction. Carissa had arranged for a painting to be delivered to Helen, but Heather, her maternal aunt, had received none. The king or officials bought the paintings, and since her husband didn't attend, it was difficult for a woman like Heather to compete with the men for one.However, whether she bought one or not was one thing. Carissa should have at least given her a painting to show that bygones were bygones. Yet, until her departure, Carissa had never mentioned it. She only curtsied and said, "Please take care of yourself, Aunt Heather."Heather's smile was strained. "No need to trouble yourself with
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 308
Heather was left speechless by Leona's words. After a long pause, she tried to deflect some of the blame onto the Avis. "Avis is also Carissa's aunt, and she was the one who acted as a matchmaker for them. Why hasn't she come back? It shows that it's not just me who's cold-hearted—everyone’s like that!"Leona sighed. "It's not like you're unaware of Aunt Avis's situation. She's been ill, and likely couldn't make the trip. Besides, she doesn't have control over Prince Yuvan's estate. It's managed by his secondary concubine. It's almost like she's been kept under house arrest."Heather sighed in resignation. "Forget it. I won't keep up relations with your cousin in the future. You can maintain contact with her if you wish, as we can't completely sever ties. After all, she is Prince Rafael's future wife. You may think we're both princess consorts, but it's not the same. Your father is ineffectual and cowardly. While Prince Rafael may not hold military authority now, he controls the My
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 309
As Carissa escorted Leona to the door, she couldn't help but say, "Don't always sacrifice yourself and try to please others. It doesn't necessarily mean they'll value you more."Leona looked at Carissa, then shook her head and said firmly, "That's not true, Cari. People's hearts are made from flesh, not stone. I can always warm theirs."With that, she was helped into the carriage by her maid.Watching Leona's departing figure, Carissa felt an inexplicable chill. It was as if an ominous premonition had settled over her.Returning inside, Carissa still felt cold and asked Lulu to bring her a hot water bottle.Lily noticed this, and asked, "My lady, are you feeling unwell?""No, I just suddenly feel very cold," Carissa replied.Lily was puzzled since Carissa was wearing a fur cloak, and there was a fire going in the room. How could she be cold?After feeling Carissa's forehead and finding it unusually cool, Lily summoned Rowan from Ryan's quarters to check her.Carissa said it wa
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 310
After Rowan returned to the physician's office, he reported to Sebastian about Carissa's inquiry regarding Avis.Sebastian glanced at him, and asked sternly, "You didn't say anything inappropriate, did you?"Rowan replied, "I would never do that. I only mentioned that Lady Avis has gone to Verdant Monastery for her recovery."Sebastian sighed. "We should keep this under wraps for now. Let's address it after the wedding. If she learns of it now, she'll certainly go there herself."Rowan nodded. "I think the same. With the wedding so close and yesterday's art exhibition drawing even the king, no one in the capital will dare to speak ill of her. If we stir up trouble with Prince Yuvan at this critical moment, it will only lead to endless disputes.""Exactly. She’s already facing criticism and jealousy for her second marriage and high status. Yesterday's art exhibition silenced those gossips. If the wedding proceeds smoothly and she hears only good things, then life will be easier aft
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 311
Snow had fallen for two days, not continuously but intermittently. The grounds were covered in a thick layer of snow, though the servants had cleared paths that made walking possible.The orchids were in full bloom, but buried beneath the snow. With a kick, the snow would scatter, and the flowers would flutter down along with it.Amid the sea of white, with purple petals drifting down, Carissa and Ryan had built a snowman. Ryan enthusiastically found two pebbles to use as the snowman's eyes, giving it a quirky, adorable appearance.Carissa draped a cloak over the snowman, and added a hat. From a distance, it looked remarkably lifelike.Not far away, Kyle had set up his easel and had been painting for some time. It had been a while since he had seen Carissa so lively, and this painting would eventually be sent back to their guild.By the twentieth day of December, with the wedding imminent, Carissa found herself overwhelmed with preparations.The wedding gown had arrived; after mo
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1366
Yuvan and Harvey were escorted out of the city gates, with Wayne personally seeing them off.Harvey had expected that once they handed over Yuvan, Wayne would order his release. But when the soldiers from the Capital Army moved forward to seize them, Wayne didn't utter a word.A wave of panic surged within Harvey. He struggled against his restraints and glanced at Wayne, his eyes screaming for an explanation.Wayne gave him a small, reassuring nod, signaling for him to stay calm. Yet, something felt wrong. After all, Wayne had promised that only Yuvan would be handed over. So, why was Harvey being turned over as well?Could it be... Could it be that they are going to abandon him?!A sense of dread tightened in Harvey's chest. "I'm innocent!" he pleaded desperately. "I captured Yuvan. Release me!"Thomas cast a cold, dismissive glance at him. "What a fool!""Wayne!" Harvey's heart plunged like it had fallen into an icy abyss. His expression shifted from anger to helplessness.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1365
Yuvan was unaware that this so-called negotiation was merely a ruse. He was to be handed over and used as bait to lure Thomas' army into the city.Thomas agreed to the negotiations and went alone. Wayne also went alone, though he had his men trailing him from a distance of about 30 feet.Wayne began his plea, explaining that most of Valken's officials, himself included, had no idea Yuvan was planning rebellion. Some were aware, but out of fear of Yuvan's power, they dared not speak out.Thomas expressed his distrust. He insisted they had been plotting for a long time.Thomas' stance was firm, which led Wayne to realize that Thomas had no knowledge that Nicholas was involved in this matter. He also couldn't possibly know about the reinforcement that was on the way. In addition to confirming this fact through Thomas' attitude, Wayne also placed a lot of trust in Clifford. This trust and respect came from Clifford's ability to convince the Spencer family. Wayne and Yuvan had been tr
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
