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Chapter 581
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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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 584
The next day, Greta and Dustin realized they had been drugged the previous night. There were clear signs that their belongings had been searched. Though their bundles had been repacked, their cautious nature meant they could tell immediately if anything had been tampered with."It's a good thing," Greta said, her eyes flashing with a cold gleam. "They must be planning to take us back to the capital, which is why they searched us. Once that's done, the rest will be easier."She turned to Carmen. "During the rest stops, try to spend time alone with the Hell Monarch and make it clear, subtly, that you're skilled in martial arts. He favors women who are proficient in combat."Carmen nodded and pressed her hand to her forehead. "I feel a bit dizzy.""It's normal," Greta said dismissively. "We were all drugged. You'll feel better soon."Looking at Carmen, Greta continued, "Remember, seize any opportunity to get close to the Hell Monarch. It was a miscalculation that his princess consort
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 585
One day, they stopped to rest in a small grove by the main road. About a mile away, there was a clear, shallow stream. The weather was hot, so everyone rushed toward the water.Carmen washed her hands in the stream, but she couldn’t jump in and soak like the men. However, seeing them play so happily, she picked up a stick and started to dance by the water's edge. Although her movements lacked any deadly force, they were graceful and captivating. She danced on tiptoe, leaping and spinning, blending dance with martial arts in a visually pleasing manner.Caught up in the moment, everyone jumped out of the water and began to show off their own martial arts skills.Greta observed Rafael, noticing that his gaze lingered on Carmen with what seemed to be admiration. She exchanged a satisfied glance with Dustin. As expected, the Hell Monarch was indeed particularly attentive to women skilled in martial arts.After a long while, Rafael finally withdrew his gaze. He looked somewhat guilty as
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 586
Carissa turned her face away, a smile on her lips. It was only natural that she would have asked Sebastian to investigate. After all, men with self-respect weren’t exactly common in this world.Rafael gritted his teeth. "You actually think I'd have those kinds of diseases? I've been on the battlefield all this time! You didn't really suspect me, did you?"The soldiers swam back to shore as Carissa reached out to take Violet’s hand, completely ignoring her husband's question. Greta noticed Rafael's frustration and Carissa's haste to leave, as if the two were in the middle of a spat.The journey back to the capital was uneventful after that. By the time they returned, it was almost August.The Ministry of Protocol had long been aware of their arrival schedule, and news of their return had spread like wildfire across the capital. Filled with the purest of sentiments, the common people were naturally thrilled to see their heroes return. Crowds filled the streets, all eager for a glimps
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 587
Barrett was on duty today, tasked with helping the Capital Guard maintain order.As the eleven young soldiers rode past him one by one, he carefully studied each of their faces. When his gaze fell on Thomas, he noticed that the once-handsome, striking figure seemed less radiant than before. A mix of nostalgia and complex emotions stirred in his chest, along with a fleeting sense of inferiority.Heroes.Barrett had once been a hero too. When he returned from the Victory Pass battle, the citizens had cheered for him the same way.But now?Now, he had been reduced to a mere ninth-rank capital guard, stripped of the glory that once surrounded him. No longer the golden boy, no longer entrusted with important duties. Watching the eleven young soldiers, Barrett couldn't shake the sense of being worlds apart, like a speck of dirt beneath their feet.If he was ever going to rise again, it would have to be through his brother-in-law's support. Or perhaps, another war would break out, givin
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 588
Helen wiped away her tears as she listened to the servants report on the lively scene outside. She could only lament that she wasn't an ordinary commoner who was free to join in the festivities.The stories told by the storytellers over the past few days, which had been relayed to her by the servants, had moved her deeply. Yet, the tears she shed now weren't for the joyful festivities outside.No, they were because she heard that Carissa had locked herself in her room since returning and hadn't come out for a long time. Helen didn't have to guess why Carissa was upset. This grand reunion didn't include her, for her dad and brothers hadn't fallen in this same battle."Come here," Helen said, beckoning to her daughter-in-law, who had just bowed to greet her. "Come sit by my side."Carissa straightened up and walked over. But before she could properly sit down, Helen reached out and pulled the younger woman into her arms.As Helen was seated, that tug resulted in Carissa finding hers
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 589
Kiera's residence, Ivory Estate, was located in the palace district where the highest-ranking nobles resided. The common folk referred to it as Noble Street, and it was only about three or four miles from Royal Street.Ivory Estate was also conveniently close to Hell Monarch Estate, just a short distance away on foot. Of course, Helen had no intention of walking. They all traveled by carriage.Ivory Estate was already occupied by staff sent by the queen dowager, tasked with maintaining the property, cleaning, and tending the garden. A number of flower trees had already been planted, and potted plants adorned the grounds.Salvador had been quite generous to Kiera. The estate was vast, with a grand and imposing front courtyard, while the rear was filled with bright and spacious rooms.In the garden, a lake had been dug. It was surrounded by pavilions, towers, rockeries, and arched bridges, with water flowing gently throughout. The surroundings created a peaceful and serene atmosphere
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1416
Carissa had known for some time that Barrett had lost an arm while saving Wyatt. Cindy had mentioned it in a letter—not intentionally, but while talking about the Sullivan family's situation and the battle, it came up briefly.When Carissa read it, she didn't dwell on the matter, nor did she mention it in her reply.In the chaos of war, it was often impossible to distinguish who saved whom.She naturally wished for every soldier to return home whole and unharmed, but war was brutal and unrelenting. Blood and sacrifice were inevitable.While Carissa had acknowledged Barrett's actions, Salvador had only recently learned of them. The latest victory report from Victory Pass detailed Barrett's courageous efforts—how he had fought valiantly, saved lives, and lost an arm in the process.The earlier reports that came back on horseback had contained only critical updates on the battle's progress, with no mention of individual achievements. Only the detailed victory reports included a list
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1415
Salvador now regularly summoned Carissa to the royal study to discuss military matters, granting her a seat at the table where battle strategies were planned and debated. Her place in these discussions was earned by leading the Mystic Army to crush the rebels.It was a position forged in blood and sweat, with no one daring to challenge her right to it.The reports that shaped their discussions came from Victory Pass and the Southern Frontier. These dispatches provided the foundation for the court's analysis of the situation, guiding decisions on logistical support and strategies.Yet, even when strategies were drafted, Salvador refrained from issuing direct commands. Instead, he offered suggestions, a gesture that showed his trust in Rafael and the Sullivan family—though that trust extended only as far as their abilities on the battlefield.With winter approaching, the soldiers needed winter clothing and more weapons. Most of their discussions revolved around supplies.Leroy and V
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1414
The garden at Tranquil Palace wasn't small, but it couldn't be compared to the royal garden.If one took their time strolling along, admiring the flowers, or stood still to enjoy the view for a while, one could easily spend a good portion of the afternoon. But Carissa was accustomed to walking briskly. Flowers didn't require her lingering attention—she could glance at them and move on, seeing little difference between one bloom and the next.She had seen fields upon fields of flowers, all of which had left a lasting impression on her. These meticulously tended peonies in their pots, though, hardly stirred any great interest.By the time they finished their walk, some of the other ladies hadn't even finished their coffee. Just as Jeanette began to speak of Skye Embroidery, they found themselves back at the main hall of Tranquil Palace.Jeanette forced a smile. "Shall we go inside and congratulate Lady Sylvia?"Carissa shook her head. "I have matters to attend to, so I'll have to
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1413
When Sylvia moved to her new residence, all the concubines sent gifts. The royal relatives, upon hearing the news, hurried to send their congratulations as well.As for what to send, other households usually left the decision to the lady of the house. But at Hell Monarch Estate, the ones in charge were Jacob and Luke.They searched through the storerooms, but nothing seemed quite right. Either the items were too expensive, or they were just simple gold, silver, or jewels. Even the golden vases seemed too small and trivial.As for the larger items, such as coral trees or folding screens, Jacob wasn't inclined to part with them. The coral tree, in particular, was rare. The one in the estate had been a wedding gift from the Pathfinders Guild when Carissa married.In the end, their eyes landed on the most abundant item in the storeroom—Kyle's orchid paintings.This would certainly make a strong impression—expensive and elegant, yet not unique to the estate. If it wasn't enough, snow w
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1412
Among the harem, Kylie was most wary of Sylvia and Grace. Sylvia was caring for Cecil, while Grace was caring for Caden, the second prince.Cecil was not Sylvia's biological son and was still very young, so Kylie need not worry too much. But Sylvia had once been arrogant, with an impressive family background and a sharp aptitude for power games.In the past year, Sylvia had softened somewhat, co-managing the affairs of the harem with Grace. She had learned how to win hearts and minds, and her support for Skye Embroidery and Gracewood Women's Academy had earned her some reputation among the common folk.In contrast, Grace was far more restrained. She co-managed the harem with Sylvia and would occasionally seek Kylie's opinion, genuinely treating her with respect due to her being the queen.But Caden, a sharp and well-mannered boy, was Salvador's and Victoria's favorite.If the position of Crown Prince were to be decided now, it would naturally fall to Connor. But once the princes g
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1411
Kylie had yet to remove her hairpins, and her makeup was still untouched, her face brimming with quiet anticipation.Earlier that day, a message had arrived from the court, announcing that the king would visit the harem tonight. She had waited for hours, but had heard no news that he had sent for any concubines. In her heart, she felt a surge of joy. If no summons had come, it meant he would be visiting her chambers."Lydia, go and see if His Majesty has arrived yet," she urged once again, her third time asking that evening.Lydia was standing to the side. She smiled and said, "Your Majesty, please be patient. If His Majesty was coming, he would surely send word beforehand so you can prepare to receive him.""Yes, you're right," Kylie sighed, brushing a loose strand of hair from her temple. "It's been so long since His Majesty visited my palace that I nearly forgot how it goes." Her smile was soft and alluring. "We are husband and wife, after all. What couple do not have thei
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1410
In the royal study, the braziers still hadn't been lit, and the cold crept in like a quiet intruder, spreading its chill across the room.The reports had been reviewed and signed long ago, yet Salvador lingered, his hand resting idly on the pile of documents. His gaze was fixed on the dim flickering of the lamp's flame, his mind adrift.He read the letter Rafael had written to Carissa, filled with endless longing and heartfelt emotions. It was as if they had just gotten married, and they were deeply in love and inseparable.This wasn't the first time Salvador had read their letters. While there had been expressions of longing in the past, none were as bold and reckless as this.Such words would feel awkward to say out loud, let alone write down. Salvador thought his younger brother's actions were inappropriate and too careless.There were far better ways to win a woman's affection—why resort to this?And yet, despite his disapproval, something within him stirred, like a stone t
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1409
Balin entered the city with just a dozen men. They were all strong and sturdy, with curved blades at their waists, looking fierce and intimidating.But when they sat down to eat and drink, their tanned faces broke into wide, radiant smiles.Balin was in his fifties, with skin as dark and shining as his men's, his eyes sharp and intelligent. He was a man of great wisdom and was meticulous in his thinking. In other words, he remained cautious and never fully trusted the Hell Monarch.His one demand was simple: this would be a one-time alliance. After driving back the Sandorians, the Southern Frontier Army was to withdraw from the grasslands swiftly. No one was to step foot in the heart of the grasslands again without permission.Rafael agreed, and the treaty was signed immediately.Once the agreement was made, they didn't linger any longer than necessary and left.The grassland tribes held little fondness for Starhaven, as the endless warfare often spilled over into their territori
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1408
After the lively wedding banquet, Carissa returned to Hell Monarch Estate, only to be struck by an unexpected chill in Orchid Hall. Her thoughts turned to Rafael, who was far away in the Southern Frontier. She hadn't counted the days since they had parted, but it felt like an eternity.She was about to head out to the Glimmering Tower as usual to see Adrian, but then she remembered that he had returned to Meadow Ridge.A pang of emptiness settled in her chest.She thought back to how Rosalind had seemed tonight. Carissa realized that when a woman got married, her heart was filled with so much joy, excitement, and bashfulness. The happiness just radiated from Rosalind.Carissa thought back to her own two weddings—both had been too calm and quiet.Lulu helped remove her makeup and was about to prepare a bath, but Carissa stopped her, pulling her down to sit beside her instead."Lulu, I've mentioned before that we need to talk about your marriage. Have you thought about anyone in
