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Chapter 379
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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 reservesâproducing 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
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 381
Rafael and Dylan led the way on horseback, while the carriage followed slowly behind.Helen grasped Carissa's hand, her excitement almost impossible to contain. "I truly didn't expect you to successfully get all the money back. Others may not be aware, but I know Grand Princess Eleanor very well. She may appear amiable to everyone, but in reality, she's quite domineering."Carissa gently pulled her hand away. "Now that you know what kind of person she is, it's best to keep interactions with her to a minimum in the future."Helen nodded, but her expression grew worried. "I'm just concerned that if we fall out with her, she might speak ill of us in front of other ladies and tarnish our reputation.""What's there to worry about?" Carissa said dismissively."Of course, you're not concerned. Your reputation is already in tatters, but I've just left the palace and can't afford to gain a bad name."Carissa gave her mother-in-law a sidelong glance. Helen was really harsh with words, espe
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 382
With so many thoughts swirling through her head, coupled with the chill she had endured, Helen's mind became muddled and her body ached slightly.When they returned to Hell Monarch Estate, Carissa helped her out of the carriage and immediately instructed the servants, "Prepare a pot of chicken soup. Everyone has been out in the cold for a while. They need something to ward off the lingering chill."Helen felt even more ashamed after hearing that.Carissa was truly considerate, remembering that her mother-in-law had suffered at Harmony Palace. Who could match such devotion and attentiveness?Little did she know, Carissa's concern was not for her but for Rafael, who had been outside in the cold and wind.The kitchen chefs soon brought up the chicken soup, and each person was served a bowl. Carissa watched Rafael drink two bowls before she was satisfied.Turning around, she noticed her mother-in-law sipping her soup slowly and said, "Mother, drink a full bowl first, and have some ho
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 383
Embarrassed or not, the two of them did end up bathing together in the end. After soaking in the bath, they continued their passionate night under the white canopy of their bed.Fortunately, both were trained in martial arts. So, even with only getting an hour or two of sleep, they were still able to go about their day without feeling tired.As they got up the next morning, two unfamiliar attendants entered to serve Rafael. Luke had arranged this. These two elderly women, Sydney and Qiana, had originally worked in the embroidery room. But now that Rafael had no one to serve him, it wouldn't be appropriate to have a young servant help him with dressing and personal needs.As for the maids serving Carissa, Joy and Winter had gone to attend to Ryan. Meanwhile, Lulu, Snow, and Pearl remained by Carissa's side to serve her personally.Lily was in charge of managing the entire Orchid Hall, so naturally, it wouldn't be appropriate to ask her to take on these duties. And if younger servant
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 384
Jacob chuckled and said, "With Lady Carissa here, you won't be short-changed. Just make sure to do the job well. Once the household army is established, you'll be in charge of their management and training. Given the hard work involved, there will definitely be an additional reward."Not interested in vague promises, Travis asked directly, "So, how much are we talking about?"Jacob held up one finger. "This much."At that moment, Travis wished he had an actual rod in his hand to smack Jacob over the head. Couldn't Jacob just say the amount instead of making him guess?"Just tell us whether you'll do it or not," Rafael said."I'll do it!" Travis immediately agreed, planning to ask Carissa later to find out exactly how much the pay was.Either way, he had already decided to take the job. He would be in for a beating if he didn't bring some money back to the guild."Alright, you won't need to worry about the recruitment process. Just focus on being the drill instructor and teaching
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 385
"She's ill, so she moved to Verdant Monastery. She wanted peace and quiet to recover, and the monastery has the blessing of the Lord," Carissa replied.Kiera was puzzled. "But if she's sick, shouldn't she stay at Horizon Estate? At least there, if anything happens, the household can be notified immediately."Even Kiera understood this logic, so how could Yuvan not know?Carissa was actually quite concerned. Yuvan's fief was in Valken, which was not too far from both Verdant Monastery and the capital.If it were truly about recuperation, wouldn't it have been better to bring Avis back to the capital? After all, the royal family was in the capital. There were also the royal physicians and Sebastian to watch over her.Now that Avis was at Verdant Monastery, Sebastian had sent two of his apprentices, Jasmine and Ivy, to care for her. But still, without any family around, it must be lonely."I'll find out more once I get there. In the meantime, Mother, please keep an eye on Ryan for m
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 386
Carissa mulled over past events in her heart, then sadly said, "I fear that her sudden worsening condition is not unrelated to me."Violet had initially intended to keep this from her friend, but since Carissa had already guessed as much, she decided to come clean."You're right. Lady Avis didn't know about your divorce at first, but Lady Fiona specifically told her about it. After hearing the news, Lady Avis coughed up blood and her condition deteriorated. These details weren't uncovered by the people from Skywing Spire. Rowan told me directly, asking whether or not he should inform you," Violet explained."I had a feeling," Carissa said, her voice filled with melancholy. "Aunt Avis arranged my marriage. Although she was the one who recommended it, my mother also made inquiries. The Warren family had indeed been quiet for years, with no significant troubles."With Amelia being ineffectual and weak, there was no oppressive sister-in-law to deal with. Also, the relationship between
Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 387
Tears suddenly welled up in Violet's eyes as she leaned against Carissa's shoulder and sobbed softly."What was I thinking? I used to hope the scholar would treat my aunt poorly so she would regret it. I also hoped that the scholar, after suffering through all the hardships, would come to regret it too. I wished they would become resentful partners, hurling insults at each other."Carissa gently rubbed her shoulder. "You're not a cruel person.""I really did think that way. I was cruel, but you didn't know," Violet said, her gaze vacant. "Now, apart from me, everyone in my family disapproves of them. Even the old servants who have been with the family for years secretly curse them when they see them.""Then, why did they come back?" Carissa asked.Violet explained, "My grandmother's health has worsened. My aunt wanted to return to see her, and perhaps she missed her family. So, she rented a house nearby and kneels at the door every day, hoping that over time, my grandmother will b
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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 Connorâs 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 beforeâsome 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 successâĶ 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 straightforwardâeach 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.
