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Chapter 53
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 54
Carissa didn't go back to sleep after Charlotte and Amelia left. It was already dusk, and she would be setting off when night fell. There was no point in trying to sleep now.She recalled Amelia's account of Barrett's wedding, and suddenly felt an urge to laugh.So, this was the true nature of the woman Barrett liked. In the end, Aurora's true nature didn't make him happy. Not only that, it also brought disgrace upon the Warren family. All the guests had walked out of the wedding banquet. This was unprecedented.Aurora Yates.Carissa chewed on the name, and suppressed feelings of resentment and anger surged within her like turbulent waves. If not for Aurora's desire for credit, the massacre wouldn't have happened and the people of Northwatch Estate wouldn't have been decimated.Before this, Carissa had never hated Aurora. Whether it was stealing her husband or belittling her, Carissa still respected the latter for her contributions to the country. After all, Aurora succeeded in
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 55
They rested at an inn that evening. Both Lightning and Carissa managing a good night's sleep. Being away from home made her unusually alert. She rose before dawn, washed up, and covered her face with a black cloth before continuing on her journey.The journey was naturally arduous, made worse by the biting cold that even the cloth couldn't shield from, roughening her skin considerably. The previous night at the inn, she had looked into a mirror. Her once smooth skin was now red and almost cracking. She applied camellia oil to prevent it from worsening—it wasn't about beauty, but avoiding pain.On the fifth morning of travel, she arrived at the Southern Frontier. The absence of supply convoys on the road along the way troubled her. It meant that the Hell Monarch thought victory was assured, and didn't need to constantly obtain provisions. However, there was still a fierce battle ahead.Upon reaching the Southern Frontier, she inquired and learned that only two cities, Ilyrian and
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 56
Carissa followed Rafael on horseback, glancing at the campfires spaced every few steps. Her heart sank at what she observed.The Southern Frontier originally had three hundred thousand soldiers, with another hundred thousand seconded from Victory Pass, totaling four hundred thousand soldiers. From her observations, however, not even half of those numbers were left.Rafael had marched through twenty-three cities, reclaiming all but two. It was clear many soldiers had sacrificed their lives.Outside the command tent, vanguards and lieutenants stood on either side. Their armor was worn, their faces weather-beaten, and their beards unkempt.A few generals stood a short distance away from the main tent. Carissa recognized one of them—Timothy Farrell, an old comrade of her father's. He had even held her as a child.Timothy strode up and stopped before Carissa. He studied her face, then said excitedly, "Carissa Sinclair? Is that you?""Timothy!" Carissa's eyes stung.Timothy's lips tre
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 57
At this moment, Carissa felt utterly exhausted. Her legs trembled as she sat down on the mat. She was too tired to worry about proper etiquette. It had been a long time since she had been so rushed, and she was struggling to keep up.Rafael saw her state, and smiled. "You're worn out, aren't you? How many days did it take you?""Five days," Carissa said, catching her breath. "I’m fine, but my horse is really exhausted.""Impressive!" Rafael said with admiration. Then, he called out loudly, "Feed the horses and prepare the meals!"A booming voice responded from outside. "Yes, sir!"Carissa quickly asked, "Aren’t you going to devise a strategy? Or send someone to urgently notify the capital and request more reinforcements?"Rafael leaned against the desk, tapping his long fingers on his leg as he narrowed his eyes. "We will recruit soldiers. Reinforcements won’t arrive quickly. To handle the first battle, we need to first recruit soldiers and gather provisions."He looked at Car
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 58
Rafael’s analysis earned Carissa’s deep respect. Only a seasoned battlefield veteran would understand how absurd it was for an enemy to surrender just because their supplies were burned, especially in a long-standing stalemate like this one. The conflict between the two kingdoms had led to countless battles over the years, both small and large, with decades of strife.Moreover, Westhaven wasn’t without its own supplies. Even if their provisions were burned, they could simply resupply and wouldn’t need to surrender. At worst, they would retreat and have a truce. By doing so, the Starhaven army wouldn’t invade them.“So, what’s the real issue?” Rafael asked.Knowing that Rafael’s investigation would eventually reveal the truth, Carissa decided to be honest. “Aurora Yates killed prisoners and massacred civilians.”Rafael’s expression changed abruptly. “Does the king know about this?”“I don’t know if the king is aware, but…the Victory Pass reports, including the final victory repor
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 59
Calling the food prepared for dinner a meal seemed quite noble. In reality, there were only two pieces of hard flatbread and dried meat—typical battlefield rations. These were the kinds of supplies commonly sent to the front lines.Now that the troops were stationed here, they could have prepared some hot stew or oatmeal. However, it was already late, and starting a big pot of stew just for Carissa would have been unreasonable.Still, they were thoughtful enough to provide a pot of hot water, which was at least something warm to drink and could heat up her body.The small, temporary tent was filled with thick, heavy blankets that were dirty and hardened with grime. Carissa could tell from a touch that the stains on the blankets were dried blood.A tall, young soldier with thick eyebrows and a scruffy beard led her in. He scratched his head and asked, “Is this okay? If not, I can get some hot soup made for you.”“No need, this is fine,” Carissa said with a grateful smile, biting
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 60
When Carissa heard this, she assumed her friends had arrived, and quickly said, “Lead me there.”Dylan guided her to the rear. From a distance, she spotted several familiar figures.Holding her Rose Spear, she leaped forward with her Lightfoot Skill and called out loudly, “Rod, Bun, Thia, Vivi!”The four of them looked up to see her soaring through the air. A young swordsman in green unsheathed his sword, and leaped up to meet her. They exchanged light blows midair.The young man's swordplay was swift as lightning, while Carissa wielded the Rose Spear with a ghostly grace. The red ribbons on the spear flared like scattered fireworks, leaving the soldiers dumbfounded by the incredible skills on display.As they landed, the young swordsman in green snorted. “Your moves are slow.”“Your swordsmanship has improved, Rod,” Carissa said, examining the young man with a bright smile. “And you’ve grown taller.”Travis Mullen was the only male apprentice of Lunar Guild. Since his master on
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 61
After enlisting, Carissa and her friends were immediately thrown into training.The five of them and a group of new recruits were sent to the training grounds. Basic drills like sword practice and wood cutting were incredibly easy for them.In no time, they completed ten training exercises, leaving the new recruits in awe. However, when it came to learning battlefield strategies, they settled down and listened attentively.Aside from Carissa, who was familiar with warfare, the other four had no prior experience with battles.Since Carissa had a tent, albeit a small one, they all squeezed in together comfortably. That evening, they asked Carissa eagerly about her marriage.Carissa hugged her knees, and said with a smile, “Yes, I got married, then divorced. I’m single now.”“That's great!” Cynthia clapped her hands excitedly. “Jasper was so upset when he heard you got married. Now that you’re divorced, you can marry him.”Carissa tapped her forehead with a finger. “I don’t want to
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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
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
