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Chapter 372
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 373
Eleanor nodded thoughtfully. "I remember you mentioned before that the shop's initial reputation wasn't good."Jessica vented her frustrations, "That's right! Despite several years of operation, it failed to make a profit and has been running at a loss. We had to resort to discounts and promotions at the end of the year just to cover costs for rent and wages. I truly feel guilty towards Aunt Helen. She believed in me, and invested in The Gilded Tower with me. Yet, instead of earning any profit, we've only faced losses.""Business is tough these days, Jessica. There's no need to feel too guilty. I'm sure Mother understands, don't you, Mother?" Carissa interjected.Carissa turned to look at Helen.Helen felt a bit confused. What was with the look?Carissa had instructed her to stay silent if possible before entering, and now, she was being questioned.But, catching Carissa's subtle hint, she could only nod and respond awkwardly, "Yes."Carissa continued off Helen's answer, "Yes, e
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 374
Eleanor and Jessica's expressions changed at the mention of the Supreme Court. They knew all too well that the current head of the Supreme Court was Rafael. Eleanor glanced at the boxes of account books. "Since Eric deceived you as well, and you've already reviewed the account books, Jessica will also need to go through them. Leave the books here for now. After we've completed our review, we will visit you personally to reconcile the accounts. Once the evidence is clear, we'll send it to the authorities for proper action."Carissa sipped her coffee and smiled. "Aunt Eleanor, I'm rather impatient by nature. The account books are here. Please have your accountants come over immediately to review them. If more accountants are needed, I can send someone to Ironridge Estate to bring over their accountants as well. We'll sort it out tonight, and the accounts can be recalculated by tomorrow.""No, you can't go to Ironridge Estate!" Jessica stood up, her face pale. Margaret and Leopold
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 375
In the blink of an eye, more than ten people surged into the room. At Eleanor's command, they headed towards the account books.Helen was frantic. "Grand Princess Eleanor, what are you doing? The account books are clearly correct! Why are you trying to hide them?"Eleanor glanced at her own fingers, then lazily gave Helen a sidelong look. "How do I know you haven't tampered with them?""Then, let's review them together. If we do it together, we'll find out if there's been any tampering, won't we?"Eleanor snorted derisively. "There's no need to trouble yourselves. Since you've already reviewed them, it's our turn now."Jessica barked, "What are you waiting for? Take them away!"Carissa held her whip in one hand, and hurled her cup at one of the guards. The cup struck him squarely on the forehead and he collapsed, unconscious.Carissa stepped forward, her whip cracking through the air with sharp, resounding snaps. The ten or so guards, despite not being lined up, all received las
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 376
Seeing Carissa's smile, Eleanor felt a deep-seated revulsion. Carissa's resemblance to Melanie was too striking. Both mother and daughter were insufferable.Carissa maintained her pleasant smile. "We're here to settle accounts openly and honestly. I'm not sure why you're making such a fuss, Aunt Eleanor. Is there really something shady happening? Mother, after we sort things out at Ironridge Estate, you'll need to host a gathering so everyone can discuss this matter properly."Jessica retorted angrily, "What nonsense are you spouting? What could be shady? Haven't I sent the account books for Aunt Helen to review all this time?""It's quite a coincidence," Carissa said, her tone growing stern. "The account books you sent to my mother-in-law are completely different from those I found at The Gilded Tower. The books you provided show losses, while the ones from The Gilded Tower show profits. Do you think there's something shady going on?"Jessica was exasperated. "Why are you talkin
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 377
Four hours passed—no more, no less. Outside, night had long fallen. The cold was even harsher.The accountant with the long beard came in to make a report. "Grand Princess Eleanor, the accounts have been thoroughly reviewed. There are no discrepancies with the numbers compared to the ones Lady Carissa has shown us.""That's outrageous!" Eleanor smashed another cup, which crashed loudly. The sound startled Helen awake. she looked at Eleanor with sleep-laden eyes, bewildered by the fury radiating from the latter.Eleanor's voice was filled with rage as she declared, "How dare that vile servant falsify accounts and embezzle Helen and Jessica's money? I will make sure he is severely punished!"Carissa released Helen and said, "It's enough that we've settled the accounts. Since Eric is the one at fault, there's no need for you to get involved, Aunt Eleanor. I'll have him sent to the Supreme Court to recover all the embezzled funds.""Carissa!" Eleanor's tone softened considerably a
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 378
Under the bright lights, Carissa carefully counted the banknotes. It was indeed the full amount of The Gilded Tower's profits over the years, with not a single cent missing. She received the banknotes, along with some loose change.Watching Carissa's meticulous counting, Jessica felt a gnawing rage. But at least the matter was settled for now, and she let out a small sigh of relief.Unexpectedly, Carissa said, "Tomorrow, we'll proceed with selling the shop. I'll have someone spread the word that Aunt Eleanor and Jessica managed the shop. With your reputations attached, many interested buyers are likely to come forward. We'll set a minimum price of 250,000 silver coins. How does that sound?"Jessica's face turned ashen. "What? You want to say that my mother and I are managing the shop? Absolutely not!"The Gilded Tower had a bad reputation, notorious for its poor quality and frequent cost-cutting. Spreading such news would tarnish both Jessica and Eleanor's reputations. Jessica wa
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 379
Carissa leaned back in her chair, her long legs and tall frame giving her an imposing presence. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips, and her eyes gleamed with satisfaction. She was pleased Helen hadn’t fallen for Eleanor's trap, even though her response had seemed rather forced.When Eleanor's attempt to provoke failed, she simply smiled. "Yes, those with capability should be in charge. But I seem to recall you once complained about this being Carissa's second marriage and how she was unworthy of Rafael. And now, in just a few days, she's got you wrapped around her finger. Quite the skillful move. Helen, I'm worried that if you stay in this estate, she'll have you dancing to her tune in no time."Carissa's smile faded, and she said coldly, "That's enough. We'll proceed as I've said. I'm done here. Goodbye.""Hold it!" Eleanor's voice was sharp and commanding. "Carissa, don't think you can just walk away!"At her shout, Helen flinched instinctively.However, Carissa
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 380
Carissa continued to count the money. When the banknotes fell short, gold bars were brought out to make up the difference. It seemed Eleanor had substantial reserves—producing over two hundred thousand silver coins was not difficult for her.Carissa had underestimated Eleanor. Over the years, Eleanor had supported the household soldiers, maintained hundreds of servants, frequently hosted guests, and adorned herself in luxurious clothing and fine jewelry. Every piece of her attire was of the highest quality.Yet, seeing Eleanor's pained expression as she handed over the money, Carissa knew this sum was hitting Eleanor where it hurt. This time, they had completely ripped off the mask of civility between them.At least, Carissa had recovered what was rightfully theirs and what had been deceitfully taken. There was no loss on her part. As for the rift, it was nothing new. There was no need to maintain the facade of hypocritical harmony.With that, Carissa made her way out.Elean
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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.
