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Chapter 673
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 674
But Jaina had spent her childhood navigating the world alongside Lucas, and she had learned that human nature was far more complex. She had no familial ties with Eleanor, yet the latter had saved her and was supposedly looking for a husband for her. It all felt improbable.Jaina had been in the capital for a while, and Eleanor never mentioned anything about a marriage proposal. Jaina was 25 years old now, and if Eleanor genuinely intended to arrange a match for her, Eleanor would have brought it up by now.In truth, Jaina wasn't entirely sure how old she was. Lucas had said she was around seven or eight when he rescued her, so by that estimation, she must be in her mid-twenties now. Furthermore, Eleanor held many banquets held at her palace. If she had any desire to present Jaina, she would have done so by now. Yet every time, Jaina found herself locked away in the courtyard. She couldn't even step outside her room. The old maid explained that she hadn't learned the proper etiq
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 675
When Jaina returned to Grovehill Estate, Gemma immediately approached her, eager to know what had transpired. Gemma was a respected lady of a marquis' family, and she would normally never treat a troupe performer with such kindness. She only did it because it was a favor to Eleanor.However, Jaina's eyes were red, which was clearly a sign of losing her composure. Gemma couldn't help but ask sharply, "Have you been crying? Did you do it in front of them?"Jaina pressed her hand to her chest, looking as though she was still shaken. "Madam Gemma, you don't understand. We went to Glimmering Tower, and we had a private room on the top floor. It was supposed to be the highest floor in the building, but Ms. Spencer wanted to test my courage. She said that since Thomas comes from a military background, I must be brave if I was to be his wife. She took my hand and flew to the very top! It was terrifying! I didn't cry in front of her, but the wind up there was so strong it made my eyes wat
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 676
Violet returned to the palace, and called Carissa and Jacob to the study. Rafael was still not back at the time. Jacob was anxious to hear the news, so he didn't want to wait for Rafael to return.Violet's first words brought tears to Jacob's eyes. "Jacob, I'm sure she's your sister."Since Violet had left, he had been restless. He hadn't been able to sleep the night before, and dark circles hung under his eyes. When Violet returned, he had just gathered himself to ask her about it when she spoke up first.He was momentarily stunned—then, tears streamed down his face.Carissa and Violet were still present, and he trembled as he made his way to the desk. He sat down, and rested his forehead against the surface for what felt like an eternity. Finally, he looked up with red-rimmed eyes and asked, "Are you sure, Ms. Spencer? You must take responsibility for your words.""I'm sure of it. She even mentioned some past events, and shared many memories she remembered. There were some det
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 677
Carissa interrupted, "You mentioned that the performance troupe was repeatedly disrupted a few years ago. How exactly were they disrupted? Did she say anything about it?""Yes, some scoundrels smashed up their equipment. They bought replacements several times, only to have them destroyed again. It made Lucas so furious, he was nearly foaming at his mouth.""When did this happen?" Carissa pressed."She said it was five years ago, and it went on for about six months.""I see. Make a note that Eleanor might have visited Stonebridge County five years ago, or she could have sent someone there," Carissa instructed Jacob.Jacob nodded. "Thank you for reminding me, Your Grace. I was so focused on Ms. Spencer's story that I completely forgot we still need to investigate Grand Princess Eleanor's so-called rescue."Jacob had never been so careless before. He realized he was too excited this time.Violet continued, "After the performance troupe disbanded, everyone scattered for a few months
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 678
The pressing issue at hand was how Thomas intended to delay the engagement.The Marquis of Grovehill's family would undoubtedly push hard for a resolution, and it would depend on how Thomas handled the situation by dragging things out.According to their speculation, Jaina would become a pawn for Eleanor if Thomas refused. There were two options—either Jaina would be married off as a concubine to Henry, or wed to an elderly man as a secondary wife or a concubine in his household.As for asking Thomas to agree to the engagement first, that wouldn't work either. Thomas clearly had no interest. Alice might have liked the idea at first, but once she realized it was a setup, she certainly wouldn't agree.Even if the two families ultimately saw eye to eye and genuinely wanted to arrange a marriage, Jaina's representative for her family should be Jacob, not someone from the Marquis of Grovehill's family. Jacob would never allow his sister to be mistreated again.After the emotional rol
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 679
Henry emerged from the dungeon of Harmony Palace, dragging his heavy feet toward the side hall where Eleanor awaited him.After meeting Carissa and learning about their plans, he shared them with Eleanor, which gave him the opportunity to visit the dungeon. He managed to bring some food and clothing for Melanie Lester, and even took her on a stroll in the courtyard outside the dungeon. However, informing Eleanor of Carissa's plan meant he had already abandoned Carmen.Henry had no choice but to proceed this way. Initially, he had been forced into the situation, but now, he was in too deep to turn back. The Marquis of Grovehill's family and Eleanor's household were tightly intertwined, leaving Henry with no option but to obey Eleanor's orders.As he entered the side hall, Eleanor dismissed those around her with a wave of her hand and said coolly, "Have a seat."Henry sat down. "Thank you, Your Highness."Eleanor sipped her coffee, and said nothing. Henry didn't say anything, eith
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 680
Eleanor waved her hand, and dismissed Henry.Did he think she couldn't see the disdain in his eyes? The more he loathed her, the more she wanted him to remember that he and Grovehill Estate would forever be her subordinates.Once Henry left, Eleanor summoned Florence. "Henry is coming tonight. Light the lamps early, and don't forget to burn the incense. Also, make sure he drinks the herbal tonic before he enters the room.""I understand, Your Highness," Florence replied.Eleanor closed her eyes, her expression uncertain. Florence hesitated before speaking again, "Your Highness, you've never been fond of getting intimate with the prince consort. Why force yourself?"Still keeping her eyes shut, Eleanor let out a barely audible sigh. "I just suddenly thought of someone.""Lord Henry is who he is, and that other person is simply that. Every time you share a bed with the prince consort, you never seem happy," Florence pointed out. Having been her wet nurse, Florence held a high posit
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 681
Eleanor smiled at Florence. "Why are you so worried? I haven't captured him yet. I've only gathered some information. On the thirtieth of September, he plans to leave for Serenvale with a coachman and servant. I'll have all of them brought back to Harmony Palace and locked up in the dungeon. Who will notice that they've gone missing? Once the Emberfest Festival is over, there'll be plenty of time for me to make my move on him."Florence felt her heart tighten. "Your Highness, General Sinclair was ungrateful and cruel to you. Why do you want to bear a child from the Sinclair family? Though Lord Henry is cowardly, he's still your rightful husband."A bitter taste rose in Eleanor's mouth, stemming from the depth of her heart.She pressed her fist against her temple and closed her eyes, hissing her next words through clenched teeth, "He was unfeeling and wanted nothing to do with me. I won't give him the satisfaction. I'll bear a child from the Sinclair family, so he'll never know peace
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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,
