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Chapter 784

Author: Summer's Blaze
Soon, an old steward led in a woman dressed in a pale pink gown. She had a soft, round face, and the dress clung a bit too tightly around her plump figure, especially around her midsection. She wasn't extremely large—just enough for the ill-fitting gown to accentuate her roundness.

Even with the extra weight, her natural beauty shone through. Her features were delicate, her skin was fair with a healthy glow, and her eyes sparkled like stars in the night sky.

The steward had already informed her of their guests, so she entered and greeted them politely, "Greetings, Prince Rafael, Lady Carissa. My name is Chaya Kingsley."

Her smile was bright and sweet, suiting her softness. It was the kind of smile that instantly made people feel at ease.

"Chaya—what a lovely name," Carissa remarked, observing her thoughtfully.

There was something different about Chaya, unlike the other concubines' daughters. She didn't have Celeste's seductive allure, Carmen's prideful strength, or Cecilia's quiet
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  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 785

    After leaving Willowbrook Estate, Carissa felt a weight lift from her chest.The concubines and daughters in Harmony Palace had become an unbearable mountain of guilt pressing down on her. Carissa knew all too well why those women had been imprisoned in Harmony Palace, and she knew their misery was Eleanor's doing. Though Carissa refused to take on any blame for her parents' actions, she couldn't shake the deep sadness she felt.Seeing those women, hollow-eyed and trembling at the slightest sound, had been heart-wrenching.Meeting Chaya had been a small balm, a fleeting comfort like a colorful bubble glistening in the sun—beautiful yet fragile, and once popped, only the dark reality remained.As the night wind whipped at the carriage curtains, Rafael wrapped an arm around Carissa. Neither spoke. Each was lost in thought, yet thinking about the same thing.Eleanor's recent actions had rattled Yuvan, making him recoil once more. Now, he would be thinking of ways to get out of the ca

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 786

    Rafael waited a full hour, but Malcolm never showed up.The prince was furious. He couldn't believe the audacity of the Quinton family. He had sent someone to inform Malcolm last night, and yet today, there was no sign of the man.It seemed they thought Carissa's visit warranted a deliberate snub. While it wasn't as blatant as the way the Duke of Oakspire's family had treated her by keeping her waiting outside, it was hardly better.Rafael was fiercely protective of his wife. He wouldn't tolerate anyone bullying him, and he certainly wouldn't stand for anyone mistreating Carissa.Without caring about whether Malcolm wanted the rest of the Quinton family to know about this matter, he called out to the assembled Quinton men, announcing, "You should all know that Eleanor placed a pawn in your family—a mistress Lord Malcolm Quinton has kept outside for three years, with whom he has a daughter."Having said his piece, Rafael turned and strode away with Jacob in tow, leaving a stunned s

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 787

    However, Lionel still felt a gnawing unease. Even if they managed to keep this under wraps from outsiders, there was no way to hide it from those within the household. With so many people around, the news would surely reach his grandfather and mom.So, Lionel turned to his uncle and said, "Uncle Herbert, I'm going to speak to Carissa directly about this. I need to know where her information came from. If she merely heard some idle gossip from outsiders and felt bold enough to claim that Dad has a mistress, I won't let this matter go.""Alright. Go, quickly!" Herbert urged.What others thought didn't concern him, but Herbert didn't believe for a moment that his brother was capable of such a thing. The Quinton family's teachings were a heavy weight on their shoulders, and as the current head of the family, Malcolm would never be foolish enough to engage in such behavior.Lionel rode swiftly to the Capital Guard's headquarters, only to learn that Carissa had been summoned to the palac

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 788

    Obviously upset, Kylie said, "Regardless, Dad would never do such a thing. There must have been a mistake in their investigation. This hasn't spread too far, right?""Only the people within the estate know. Uncle Herbert issued a strict order prohibiting anyone from speaking of it outside," Lionel replied."Was Dad home when you left for the palace?""I left before he came back. I went to the Capital Guard headquarters to find Carissa, but when I heard she had been summoned to the palace, I rushed over right away. I was hoping to clarify things with her so we could plan our response," Lionel explained."Regardless, I absolutely refuse to believe that Dad is keeping a mistress," Kylie stated coldly.Lionel had initially believed it, simply because it had come from Rafael. However, after hearing Herbert's words and reflecting on them, he felt a mix of doubt and suspicion.This wasn't something Rafael had uncovered—it was the Capital Guard's investigation. While undoubtedly skilled,

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 789

    After a thorough comparison, they found that the armor from Harmony Palace was actually made with better materials and craftsmanship than the Ministry of Defense's armor.The battle gear made for generals was especially impressive. When tested in Salvador's study, the armor withstood several blows without any damage, while the blades of the swords chipped instead.However, the ballistae tested were deemed a lower quality than the Ministry of Defense's, which slightly eased Salvador's anger.At least it proved one thing—Cecilia hadn't lied. She hadn't stolen the designs for the ballistae or armor, as the two were clearly distinct. Still, Gareth was likely to face repercussions. It was unacceptable for him to let such critical weapon blueprints leak.Fortunately, Salvador had not changed his stance on the concubines' daughters, and was quite supportive of Carissa's proposal for their unified supervision. After all, those women had indeed been manipulated, and no real harm had come to

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 790

    Just as she took a few steps out of the royal study, Carissa was intercepted by the queen's head maid, Lydia, who smiled and curtsied."Your Grace, it's been a while since we last met."Carissa returned the smile. "It has. What brings you here, Lydia?""Oh, it's nothing urgent. Her Majesty mentioned she hasn't seen you in some time and would like to invite you to Everspring Palace for some tea."Carissa's throat was parched and she felt the pang of thirst. However, she also knew that an invitation from the queen rarely came with good intentions.Could she decline?Seeing the determined look on Lydia's face, she realized that refusal wasn't an option."Alright, then. Please lead the way.""Of course, Your Grace," Lydia replied cheerfully before setting off.The distance from the royal study to Everspring Palace was a bit of a trek, but the weather was pleasant, with a gentle breeze that eased some of the oppressive atmosphere from the study. As she walked, the tension slowly bl

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 791

    Kylie's voice cut through the tension, "How did you investigate this? If you can share it with His Majesty, then you can share it with me. I refuse to believe my dad could be that kind of man."Carissa met her gaze firmly. "Your Majesty, perhaps you should ask your dad directly. This involves a treason case. While I can share the outcome with you because it directly concerns your dad, revealing the details of our investigation to you might not be wise, as this is a matter of state."Kylie was stunned.Carissa was right—Kylie shouldn't pry into the investigation. It was forbidden for the women of the royal harem to interfere in political affairs. Given that the Quinton family was at the height of its power and she was the queen, whose actions were closely watched and scrutinized, any mistake could be magnified.Lionel furrowed his brow. How was he supposed to approach his dad about this? He didn't even know whether the claim was true. So, even if his dad dismissed it as a lie, a nag

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 792

    Lionel sighed heavily. "A second-rank official is allowed up to four concubines. Since Dad already has four, taking another would exceed the limit. While many officials bend the rules, His Majesty expects his ministers to set a proper example. Since Dad is a model civil servant, he wouldn't want to tarnish his reputation."Kylie's expression darkened, her voice trembling slightly as she exclaimed, "It's foolish! If he takes a liking to someone and brings her in as a maid, wouldn't that leave him free to do as he pleases? With how things are now, the love between our parents will become a laughingstock, and Dad's reputation will be ruined!"She gripped the armrest tightly, fury shining in her eyes. "And the Hell Monarch! Why did he have to announce it publicly?"Lionel felt a knot of confusion in his chest. He was unsure of how to face his dad. However, he felt compelled to explain further, given Kylie's distress."His Highness already sent word that he would be coming last night, b

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  • 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

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1407

    Thomas and Rosalind's wedding had been postponed time and time again, but finally, they found a favorable day to celebrate. The event wasn't extravagant, but as the granddaughter of the royal chancellor, it still carried the necessary dignity.Victoria led the way, and the other palace ladies followed suit, each offering generous gifts to Rosalind for her trousseau. The students of Gracewood Women's Academy also rallied to show their support, presenting Rosalind with handmade wedding gifts. Most of the girls at the academy came from humble backgrounds. Though their gifts weren't costly, the thought and effort they put into embroidering and crafting the items was the most meaningful part.Rosalind's wedding dress had been commissioned long in advance from Camila. The gown had previously been displayed in Skye Embroidery, where it had caught the eye of many young women. They all dreamed of wearing such a beautiful dress for their own weddings. Camila was already well-known, but now

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1406

    Salvador summoned Eustace to the palace for an audience.Eustace had come prepared. Though he had led his bodyguards and the merchant convoys to quell the unrest, the connection between the Spencer family's collateral branch and Nicholas couldn't be easily dismissed. Even if Salvador publicly declared their merits balanced with their faults, it was not something that could be swept aside without consequence.However, Salvador's attitude towards Eustace was surprisingly warm. The former even praised him for his loyalty to the throne and his patriotic spirit, noting that he resembled his late father in his unwavering commitment. The previous head of the Spencer family had been generous to the court, contributing substantial funds during times of war.Eustace understood the underlying message and quickly offered, "With both the Southern Frontier and Victory Pass embroiled in battle, the Spencer family is willing to contribute in whatever small way we can. We will donate 300,000 silve

  • Her Graceful War Song   Chapter 1405

    Adrian had been in the capital for some time now. In the past, he had been consumed with his studies on sacred firearms, leaving little room for anything else. But now, with some free time, he used the excuse of being unable to let go of the business in the city to extend his stay.The truth was, he was concerned for Carissa.His interest in sacred firearms had begun with his trip to Nerathia to study their methods. He had done it for the Southern Frontier, then Hector, and ultimately, for Rafael and Carissa.As a mentor, Adrian knew that they each had their own paths to walk. He couldn't prevent them from forging their own futures, but he could help them however he could and act as their support.Adrian often claimed he wasn't cut out to be a teacher. But the truth was, his apprentices were exceptional. Each one of them was a person of great character. None of them needed his constant concern—except for Carissa.She had always been wild and carefree. But even so, she had mast

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