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Chapter 328
Kaugnay na kabanata
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 329
Carissa instinctively reached for Adrian's hand, only to see a different hand extended toward her.The hand was broad and long, with a palm covered in calluses, fingers slender and nails neatly trimmed. Most importantly, just above the palm, she could see a white sleeve embroidered with griffin patterns.The griffin pattern was allowed to be used on a prince's wedding garment or even normal ceremonial robes, but the sky griffin pattern was not.It was Rafael, her husband-to-be.Regaining her composure, Carissa placed her hand in his. He, too, seemed unfamiliar with holding hands. He first enveloped her hand with his palm, then awkwardly turned it a few times to find a proper fit before finally interlocking their fingers.Carissa's heart raced wildly, pounding so loudly it felt as though it might burst through her eardrums. But if it were possible, she would have heard Rafael's heartbeat quickening in tandem with hers, a sensation so intense it bordered on dizziness.Rafael led he
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 330
The two wedding processions collided head-on.Barrett looked at Rafael, and Rafael looked back at Barrett.Their gazes met, and Rafael felt nothing but gratitude. He was thankful Barrett had abandoned Carissa. However, gratitude was one thing—the fact that Barrett had previously wronged Carissa was another matter.Barrett's eyes were filled with a complex mix of emotions. Once, he had been just as passionate and proud while bringing Carissa into his home. Back then, he had felt like the happiest man in the world.Yet, fate was cruel. Now, Carissa was the Hell Monarch's princess consort, while Barrett had married and divorced different women, never truly finding fulfillment.Because of that, Barrett's complex gaze was filled with traces of envy, jealousy, resentment, bitterness, discomfort, and heartache. At this moment, he seemed to fully realize that he and Carissa could never go back—there really was no connection between them anymore.It was this clear realization that led B
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 331
Upon entering Hell Monarch Estate, Carissa was immediately overwhelmed by a cacophony of voices, all calling out congratulations and well-wishes. Some of the voices were familiar, while others were unfamiliar.Among them was Eleanor's annoying voice.Oh, Jessica was present too—how irritating.Her wedding was becoming a mess.Kyle was the center of attention, outshining Carissa as the bride. But it didn't matter, because Violet had quietly approached and taken her friend's hand."Guess who?""You're so childish! You're Rod!" Carissa joked with a laugh."If you say so," Violet replied, chuckling. "Rod is probably in the side hall. After all, he's part of your dowry."Carissa chuckled too, feeling less anxious.She had no idea what the procedures were. She was just standing there, listening to them set up a table and other things. Her mind wandered. Why were they setting up a table? Were she and Rafael supposed to swear brotherhood here?That was so funny.Well, it wasn't actu
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 332
Once the white veil was lifted, the matchmaker promptly removed it.The couple's eyes met, and each saw a breathtaking beauty in the other. In that moment, both held their breath.Rafael's heart raced faster. He couldn't tear his gaze away from his bride's face. She was the most beautiful person he had ever seen—like a fairy hidden beneath a rose tree.Carissa gazed at Rafael with bright eyes, noting that he looked even more handsome than before. The griffin patterns on his ceremonial robes showed his high status. The usual coldness in his noble presence was absent, with only warmth and tenderness present in his eyes. Standing tall and graceful, he seemed like a divine being.Both of them blushed and remained transfixed, reluctant to break eye contact.Some things were wondrous—they both felt it in that shared gaze.The matchmaker spoke up, "Your Highnesses, the ladies outside are here to receive their blessing gifts and share in your joy."That Carissa snapped out of her reveri
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 333
Talking bad about one's own master and others' masters was something they did without any pressure.Carissa raised her hand, sending her attendants out to stand guard at the door.Violet, who was never one to hold back, said, "We've been here for two days, but we weren't allowed to enter the city. It was your master's order. We had to stay at a small inn in a town outside the city. There were so many thieves in that town. Fortunately, we had enough martial experts among us, so the dowry was safe."Two days ago was when Kyle had left. He probably did it to meet up with Adrian outside the city."But your master brought Winona into the city every day, from morning until evening. We don't know what news they were gathering. Today, we waited outside the city around noon. When we saw that your dowry was about to depart, we hurried in," Violet continued, adding, "I've never been so flustered, but it was also quite thrilling. It felt like we were at the center of attention of the entire ci
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 334
Hell Monarch Estate was bustling with activity today. Most officials and military officers of the fourth rank and above were there. Those who weren’t present were either at Silverstone Estate or Valor Estate.However, the main topic of conversation at Hell Monarch Estate wasn't Carissa, the new princess consort, but rather the group of martial artists led by Adrian. His presence alone was enough to spark private whispers and speculation.Who was Adrian Russell?The Russell family had once been a powerful family in the capital, but they eventually withdrew from the circles of power to establish their own guild. Some insightful individuals claimed that, although there was no formal leader of the martial arts world, Adrian's position was essentially equivalent to that of a leader.Why?Because Adrian was both wealthy and highly skilled.His combat skills were exceptional—one could only guess at the extraordinary experiences that had honed his abilities to such a level.As for his w
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 335
After three rounds of toasts, Adrian and the apprentices from the Pathfinders Guild stood up to offer their own. It wasn't just Adrian whom people were impressed by—even if only Kyle were present, their presence commanded respect. When they came to make toasts, even the prime minister stood up to reciprocate.Trevor was the one who had initially secured this marriage, so Adrian toasted him. Adrian drank the entire cup, while Trevor only took a small sip, which was enough to show his respect as the royal chancellor. Also, considering his health, excessive drinking wouldn't be advisable.Carissa's eyes reddened as she watched the Pathfinders Guild members rise to make toasts.They were undoubtedly there to support her. Even though the occasion was hosted by Rafael's household, the Pathfinders Guild members wanted to show everyone that this place would also be Carissa's in the future.Though such customs were not typically observed in high-society marriages, they were martial artists.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 336
Standing to the side, Jessica smiled as she said, "Mom, that won't do. If Carissa questions us later and blames Aunt Helen, wouldn't it be... Oh, never mind, Aunt Helen wouldn't dare."The mother and daughter duo were clearly manipulating Helen, whose "innocence" bordered on frightening, making her particularly susceptible to provocations.Helen immediately responded, "It's just a few Mystic Pearls. Do you think she'll really get angry at me?"Earlier, she had worried about Carissa's powerful backing and how she might struggle as a mother-in-law. But now, after a few words, she felt emboldened. Her concern seemed to have evaporated.Helen rose from her seat, chin held high. Gillian accompanied her as she made her way to the side hall.Outside, the guests were still enjoying the banquet and making toasts. There were only a few guards watching over the wedding gifts. After all, the guests in the residence were of high status, none of whom would dare to commit petty theft.It was Ja
Pinakabagong kabanata
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1564
Spring rain was as precious as gold, even if the April showers came a little later than expected.Salvador stood outside the royal study, looking at the lamps swaying in the rainy night. Everything around him felt like a dream, a mix of reality and illusion.Rafael's figure had long disappeared into the rain, no longer visible. A bitter feeling stirred in the king's heart as he remembered how his brother had taken the medicine without hesitation, as if accepting the outcome without a second thought.While Salvador felt a sense of relief, it was tinged with a deep discomfort. He had pushed his younger brother into this situation.Rafael and Carissa were still young. Even without concubines, the couple could easily have three to five children in the future. But having taken the medicine, Rafael's line would end. Even if it could continue through adoption, it would never be the same as having a biological child.How could Rafael not feel an ounce of regret?As an older brother, Salv
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1563
"Has His Majesty grown suspicious of you again?" asked Carissa, startled to see the pill.Rafael shook his head. "Not at all. In fact, he trusts me more now. Many of the reports go through me and Mr. Murray before they reach him.""Then, why?" Carissa asked, confused."There are three reasons," Rafael replied, putting the pill down and holding her hand. "First, His Majesty trusts me now because he's been through so much. Also, his health has stabilized, which has eased his suspicions. But if his health falters again, and I have too much power and even children at the time, he might see me as a threat."Carissa nodded in understanding. "We can wait a few more years before having children, right? Wasn't the medicine you took previously supposed to last for five years? Since that time has passed, could you take another pill to buy us five more years?"Rafael squeezed her hand tightly. "This is the same pill. The first time, it lasts for five years. But if I take it again, it will pre
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1562
In the end, Grace couldn't hold out for long and passed on.When she learned that Caden, having lost his mind, had been sent away to a monastery to spend his days, she was already near the end of her strength. The pain, relentless as a shadow, gnawed at her day and night. And on a bitterly cold night, she breathed her last.Victoria took charge for a time, sending away all the palace servants involved. What happened to them remained unknown to Carissa and the others.With the sudden loss of the queen and two high-ranking concubines, coupled with the queen dowager's declining health, the task of overseeing the harem fell to Penelope for the time being.Salvador had no plans to marry again. He preferred to keep the harem simple and avoid any further complications.But despite her best efforts, Penelope lacked the strength to handle things properly. Every few days, there was some new problem. The matter of the concubines' allowances and the monthly payments to the servants caused end
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1561
Kylie stood frozen, her body tense with fear and sweat beading on her brow as she saw the black silk ribbon coming toward her neck. Desperate, she tried to talk her way out of it, her voice shaking."N-no, it's not too late. His Majesty loves Connor dearly. He wouldn't let him be without a mother. I must care for him myself. No one can take away my right to be his mother!"She paused, gasping for breath before adding, "And Lady Carissa once said... she said that Connor loves me. Those were his words. He's wounded, alone, and heading to Eldermere Keep. He can't go without me. I must go to him!"As the silk wrapped around her neck, Kylie cried out sharply, "Your Majesty, you can't do this! What have I done wrong? Lady Grace tried to kill Connor and wasn't sentenced to death, yet you're going to execute me just because I've been foolish? I've hurt no one!"Derek paused momentarily. There were things he wasn't supposed to say, but thinking of the injured Connor stirred his compassion.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1560
Kylie's sobs ceased abruptly. For a moment, she stood frozen.Her voice trembled with disbelief as she asked, "What did you say, Your Majesty? Connor is not dead?"How could he not be dead? The funeral had already been carried out, and he had been laid to rest. The entire court knew of his passing.Salvador gazed steadily at her and said, "He is not dead, but gravely wounded. Both of his legs were shattered. If he survives, he'll never walk again. Healer Dalton has taken him to Eldermere Keep for treatment. If he recovers, he'll live under a new name. If not, at least the keep is a good place to lay him to rest."Realizing that the king didn't seem to be lying, a sudden wave of hope and joy surged in the queen's heart. But right after, confusion set in."If he is alive, why was the funeral held? Why not treat him here in the capital? What if his injuries aren't as bad as they seem? What if you've been deceived by Healer Dalton, Your Majesty? He's close to Lady Carissa, who has alw
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1559
Salvador didn't grant Grace a swift death.Instead, he commanded that her legs be shattered—one brutal strike at a time. Flesh split, blood pooled, and gleaming white bone pierced through torn skin.The pain was so unbearable that Grace lost consciousness multiple times. After hours of torment, she was unceremoniously cast aside, her broken form left to suffer in the Cold Palace.Salvador personally led Caden to the Cold Palace, his expression as cold as the wind that swept through its desolate halls.The king pointed at Grace, who lay curled on the ground and howling in pain, then said to Caden, "Your elder brother suffered far worse when he fell from his horse. His pain was unbearable. He died from it—slowly, and with no reprieve."Caden had long since been reduced to tears, his face streaked with grief and regret. As his legs gave out beneath him, he collapsed onto the cold stone floor, hands clamped over his ears as if that might drown out his mother's screams.Salvador then
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1558
Caden's eyes were wide with terror and his expression was one of sheer horror, as though he had been suddenly awakened from a nightmare.Gasping for air, he clutched his ears and shouted desperately, "No! Mom, I don't want this! I don't want my brother to die! I don't want it..."Grace collapsed to the ground. From the moment Salvador had taken out the caltrop, it was as if all her strength had been drained from her body, leaving her crumpled on the floor.However, Salvador paid her no mind. His gaze remained fixed on Caden, the coldness in his eyes unyielding."It is too late. Your elder brother is dead. You killed him," said the king.Caden whirled around, his head slamming into Grace's abdomen. A shrill, anguished cry escaped his lips as he shouted, "You lied to me! You said he wouldn't die! You said that he would only be crippled! You lied to me! You lied to me! I killed my brother—"The force of the impact left Grace breathless, her insides twisting painfully as if they migh
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1557
Grace received Salvador's arrival with a sense of dread.The past days had been filled with Carissa's relentless probing, which had left Grace in a state of terror. Yet, despite her fear, a small spark of hope still flickered within her.Connor was dead, while Cecil was but a child and of frail health. It was Caden—intelligent as well as gifted in both studies and martial arts—who was undoubtedly the most suitable choice for the throne.If not Caden, then who? Could it truly be Cecil?If Caden were chosen, Grace was certain she wouldn't be blamed for anything. Salvador wouldn't tarnish the reputation of the birth mother of the crown prince and future king.Now, as Salvador arrived at Iridescent Palace, Grace's heart began to race. His presence could only mean one of two things. Either he had come to check on Caden's progress and finalize his selection as crown prince, or—more dangerously—he had come with evidence and questions regarding the events that had unfolded.Either way, t
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
