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Chapter 575
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 576
That night, Barrett did not leave Grace Mansion. For several nights in a row, he stayed at Viola's place. Aurora began decorating her courtyard, using her own money since the family's public funds were unavailable to her.She chose the sturdiest wood for the doors and windows. Ironwood was hard to come by, and she asked the lumber merchants to find it, promising to pay a high price if they succeeded. She renamed the courtyard "Blessed Haven".Having left the army and without any battle armor, she secretly commissioned a protective heart shield. She wore it day and night to guard against any potential assassins. As for Barrett and Viola's affection towards each other, she couldn't care less. She held no respect for a man who had changed his heart.She had once said she wouldn't be caught up in domestic squabbles, and she would never become the kind of person she most despised. Moreover, did Barrett truly have feelings for Viola? She didn't believe it—not even a little. Barr
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 577
Carissa knew Violet was favored, but she also felt there was more to it. The Spencer family was a prominent and powerful clan in Ebonflow, known as royal merchants with many other businesses. In Starhaven, everyone knew about the Spencer family. They were the wealthiest merchants in the kingdom, and their riches were said to rival a country's wealth. Yet, with great wealth came great risks, particularly since they supplied the court with warhorses, armor, and weapons. The Ministry of Defense had its eyes on them, and at least half of the king's attention was also focused on the Spencer family.Currently, the head of the Spencer family was Violet's grandfather. However, the real power lay with her father, given her grandfather's advanced age and inability to handle so many affairs."What about your marriage? Have you given it any thought?" Carissa asked.Violet replied lazily, "No, I haven't thought about it. The people they suggest are either too high or too low in status for
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 578
However, there were so many people who wanted Rafael's attention. Whenever something happened, they would seek him out, leaving him with little time alone with Carissa.Even the nights were no better, because Carissa was sharing a room with Violet while he was stuck with Dylan. Rafael had grown weary of it. Dylan's snoring was impossible to muffle. In the middle of the night, Rafael would kick his bed. However, Dylan would only turn over and continue snoring loudly.Rafael was eager to return to the capital as soon as possible.When the group was approaching Eastridge, they saw a carriage on the main road. It was overturned, and blocking most of the path. While riders could pass, Lawrence's carriage couldn't get through.Dylan rode forward and saw two people trying to lift the overturned carriage. The horse lay nearby, seemingly having suffered from heatstroke.The woman wore a hood that covered her face, so it was hard to see what she looked like. She was dressed in a pink dres
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 579
Carmen Kingsley?Carissa recalled Ruby, who was also Eleanor's illegitimate daughter, and her real name was Celeste.Carissa glanced quickly and noticed that the maid seemed to show little respect, instead giving off a practiced martial air. The guard and driver frequently glanced at Carmen, giving the impression that they were keeping a close watch on her.Looking at Carmen again, Carissa saw her looking nervous and clutching a handkerchief tightly. Sweat dripped from beneath her veil, and she used the handkerchief to wipe it away.Suddenly, Carmen's body stiffened, and she seemed to be in pain. Carissa then noticed that the maid's hand appeared to be moving at her lower back. But since it was concealed from her sight, it was difficult to see clearly.Both Carissa and Violet wore veiled hats, which obscured their faces from view but allowed them to see outside. Although it seemed like they were looking at the carriage, they were actually observing Carmen and her maid.From the
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 580
As the carriage rolled along, the strong wind and intense sun made the heat almost unbearable. Despite the sweltering conditions, the maid showed no sign of discomfort. She seemed quite resilient.Typically, a maid attending closely to her mistress would be delicate and avoid heavy labor. However, this one was different.Wasn't this little act of hers a bit disrespectful?Thomas sighed and chose not to dwell on it further. They were accustomed to living on the edge, and such tricks were beneath their notice.-Inside the carriage, Carmen had removed her veil, revealing a face strikingly similar to Celeste's—beautiful yet distinctly cool.With the maid outside, she spoke softly, "Lady Carissa, please save my mother."Carissa responded gently, "But clearly, that wasn't your only reason for stopping us.""You're right." Carmen shook her head, a hint of shame on her otherwise composed face. "My mother ordered me to ruin your relationship with the Hell Monarch."She half-knelt an
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 581
Carissa pretended to discuss the matter quietly with Rafael. They spoke in hushed tones, inaudible to others. As the maid and the guard couldn't hear anything despite straining to listen, their anxiety was palpable.After a considerable pause, Rafael finally nodded."Alright then, we'll head to the capital together," said Carissa.The maid sighed in relief. "Thank you, Lady Sinclair. You are truly a saint.""What's your name?" Carissa asked.The maid bowed. "My name is Greta."Carissa turned to the guard. "And you?""My name is Dustin," the guard replied in a slightly gruff voice.Though he was sturdy and appeared honest, a person's appearance didn't always reflect their true nature.Carissa asked a few more questions but didn't get much more information. It was clear she wasn't expecting to learn anything significant from them.At supper time, a pinch of Sebastian's colorless, tasteless powder rendered Dustin, Greta, and the driver unconscious. Once that was done, Carmen kne
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 582
Violet and Carissa shuddered at the thought. To throw a newborn baby to its death was an act of unimaginable cruelty.Carmen managed a bitter smile. "Such things... who knows how many cruel and vicious secrets are hidden in the grand princess' inner palace? I once had a younger brother. When my mom was pregnant, she was sure it was a boy."She knew my dad couldn't protect her and that the grand princess wouldn't allow a boy to live. Boys were doomed from the start. So, my mom wanted to escape, but the grand princess had people watching her. Once you enter the grand princess' inner palace, the only way out is as a corpse."Carmen wiped her tears and continued, "My dad promised to help her escape. My mom believed him and waited for a chance. When the time finally came, it was almost too late, but she finally had a chance—the grand princess was out for a banquet and wouldn't return until late.""Did she manage to escape?" Violet asked, both angry and anxious."She did escape, but was
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 583
"When we were in Harmony Palace, we weren't allowed to leave our own courtyards. Whether it was practicing martial arts or receiving instruction from the courtesans as my sister did, it all took place within our own courtyards."I've never been to the western courtyard before. However, according to the servants, it's used for religious worship. Grand Princess Eleanor goes there to pray on the first and fifteenth days of each month," Carmen replied.Carissa frowned. "So, there's a temple there?"It couldn't be as simple as a temple. If it were, why would Eleanor be so anxious? It seemed Carissa would need to find an opportunity to investigate further."You mentioned you have some skill in martial arts?" Carissa asked."Greta is my teacher. I've trained for several years. We sisters all have similar skills. Since the grand princess raised us, she needed us to be useful. She wouldn't want to waste her efforts," Carmen answered.Carissa nodded. That was true.Eleanor was not merely
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1512
The position Faelan took at the table represented Nerathia's stance in the negotiations.They were neutral!Carissa couldn't help but marvel once more at the power of a strong kingdom.The initial stages of the talks were tedious, with the same points being repeated over and over. The translators were busy, their voices echoing with historical debates. This was inevitable, as conceding too early would only lead to further compromises.As such, the first round of negotiations yielded no agreement. It was simply a test of boundaries.The second round began the following day. Again, they emphasized the same points.But after the second repetition, Faelan spoke up, saying, "There is no point in prolonging this. The dispute over the border has lasted for decades. It will not be resolved in a day. Let us set the border issue aside for now. What I wish to know is whether both sides are committed to establishing peace and mutual non-aggression between your kingdoms."The answer was unan
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1511
Carissa noticed that the nobles and officials of Orivenia seemed unaware of Nerathia's intention to intervene in the negotiations.Their faces betrayed confusion, but after a moment, they revealed expressions of joy and confidence. It seemed they also believed that Nerathia's involvement would provide Orivenia with solid backing.Seeing this, Carissa felt a slight sense of reassurance. If that were really the case, Lisandra would have informed them beforehand. Or at least, she would have let the negotiating officials know.But why hadn't she?It seemed there was only one explanation. Lisandra was also hoping for mutual concessions. Few at court supported her, so she had brought in Faelan from Nerathia—someone whom everyone would trust.This made sense of the conversation from the previous night, when Lisandra had invited Carissa and Violet to the palace. The remarks about unmet wishes were clear now. The example of the women taking part in the civil service examinations was just t
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1510
In banquets like these, no one truly ate with much enthusiasm. Most dishes were merely tasted before being set aside, barely touched before servants whisked them away.But the Nerathians were different. They treated every dish with genuine respect, cleaning their plates entirely, no matter what was served. Their wine glasses, once filled, were immediately emptied again. The palace servants attending to them must have been exhausted, constantly refilling their glasses and replacing empty plates.Violet recalled their meal at Spring Pavilion. Just like tonight, not a single scrap had been left behind. She wanted to say something to Carissa, but the only sound in the hall was the clinking of cutlery and the quiet shifting of plates. Speaking now would be too conspicuous.Still, one glance between them was enough.Violet's thought was clear—the Nerathians' presence at this banquet must be tied to the negotiations. Carissa agreed.However, their exact role remained uncertain. Were they
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1509
The banquet began in the late afternoon, with Liam personally escorting the Starhaven delegation to the palace again.As they had suspected, the coronation ceremony had already been held. This evening's gathering was mainly focused on the border negotiations. Upon entering, Carissa and Violet noticed that there were no other foreign emissaries present—only royals, nobles, and officials from various departments.While they showed no hostility toward the Starhaven delegation, they weren't particularly welcoming either. Since a translator was needed for communication, conversations remained minimal, limited to simple greetings.Just as they were settling in, Lisandra turned to the Starhaven delegation and remarked, "Today, we have guests from Nerathia joining us as well. They should be arriving shortly. I believe you will find that you have much in common."Davis' eyes brightened immediately. "Guests from Nerathia? Who might they be?"His excitement was understandable.The weapons t
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1508
Lisandra continued, "The irony is, when I was a grand princess, I could call for women to join the ranks of government without hesitation. Now that I am the queen, I must move slowly, cautiously, balancing all the factions, weakening their hostility and wariness toward me. There are so many things to consider and so many forces at play. At times, I grow impatient, and I wish I could simply rid myself of those who oppose me."Carissa thought for a moment before replying, "In truth, whether one is a king or an official, man or woman, I believe their goal is the same, Your Majesty. It's to ensure the long-term stability of the kingdom and the peace and prosperity of the people. "When the nation prospers and war is no longer a threat, any reforms you wish to make will face less resistance. But for now, you must first secure your position, Your Majesty."Her meaning was subtle, but Lisandra understood clearly. The kingdom was still in turmoil, with various factions causing obstacles. Si
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1507
The royal palace of Orivenia stood resplendent and imposing, its golden architecture gleaming under the night sky, exuding an air of solemn grandeur.Upon passing through the first palace gate, the carriage rolled smoothly along the wide palace path, its spaciousness a stark contrast to the more cramped streets outside. However, what stood out the most was the abundance of lamps. It seemed as if oil was no object, for the palace grounds were lit up as though the night itself had been banished. As they got out of the carriage and walked along the winding corridor, the large trees ahead were hung with many lamps. Anyone trying to hide in the trees wouldn't stand a chance; they would be seen immediately.Liam led the way. As they approached a grand palace hall, two female attendants stepped forward. They exchanged a few words with Liam in the Westic before smiling and nodding to Carissa and Violet."Ladies, Her Majesty invites you to enter the palace," Liam said with a polite gesture
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1506
By the time they reached the capital of Orivenia, it was the 13th of August. A full month had passed since they left Starhaven.The afternoon sun shone brightly, and Kendrick lay back in the carriage as they entered the city.Since entering Orivenia's borders, they had endured seven assassination attempts. The last one had been particularly brutal, likely involving suicide soldiers. Many of the Mystic Army were injured, and even Violet had been grazed on the shoulder. Thankfully, it hadn't struck anything vital.Kendrick's fear was understandable. The attack had come when he was emerging from the washroom. The assassin's sword had pierced his chest, nearly plunging in completely. It was Carissa who noticed in time and swiftly turned, driving her spear into the assassin's chest before dragging him back with the hooked tip of her dagger, saving Kendrick's life.Though the injuries were minor, Kendrick reacted as if he had been mortally wounded. He howled in agony for half the night b
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1505
Kendrick had been shaken by the attack, and the royal physician had already been called to prepare a sedative to calm his nerves.When Carissa visited him, it was a pitiful sight. His face was as pale as paper, drained of all color. His lips trembled, and he shakily asked if the assassins were gone.She reassured him, saying they had gone, and only then did his trembling subside slightly.The people around him had already informed him that the assassins were driven off, but he hadn't believed them. He needed to hear it from Carissa to feel any sense of security.Carissa reminded him to rest and recuperate before she left.Meanwhile, Davis was busy comforting the others. As the Defense Minister, he had seen his fair share of chaos and remained calm. Also, he trusted Carissa and the Mystic Army. He didn't think there was much to fear—at worst, they had just risked losing a head.It was Meadow Ridge's members who gathered together, speculating that the black-clad figures they had en
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1504
At the break of dawn, the large procession set out for Orivenia.Carissa didn't feel much regret in leaving. After all, they would pass through Victory Pass on the way back, and she would have the chance to meet with her grandfather and his family again.Once they had left Victory Pass, the road grew rougher. Many sections were full of deep potholes or had been intentionally damaged, making it difficult for the carriages to move forward.However, Kendrick was determined not to ride a horse again. Even after days of rest, his legs were still sore from the relentless friction of the saddle. Walking was manageable, but sitting on horseback? That was pure agony.So, despite having earned his merit at Victory Pass for establishing an orphanage there, Kendrick insisted on traveling by carriage. When the wheels got stuck or the path became too treacherous, the Mystic Army soldiers dismounted and pushed the carriage forward, inching their way through the difficult terrain.Fortunately,
