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Chapter 784
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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 1588
Having failed to convince my mother, I went to my father. However, his response was even more severe.They thought I opposed the marriage because I hadn't spent time with Phineas. They were also convinced that since the match was already being arranged, it would be best for him to take me out and build some rapport between us.I didn't want to go, but my mother's maid forced me into the carriage. The maid was also told to watch me closely to ensure I didn't speak out of turn.Phineas looked all polished up, with shiny hair and a face like he had powdered it that morning. He initially showed me some respect, but soon enough, his true nature began to show. He made crude comments about my appearance, saying that if it weren't for my looks and the fact that I was from the Spencer family, he would never have considered marrying me.His condescending attitude made me uncomfortable. If that had been the worst of it, perhaps I would have simply let it go. But on our way back, he pinched me
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1587
Startled, I quickly turned around. Not far behind me stood a man, half-hidden in the shade of a tree. He wore a simple black outfit, his figure thin and unkempt, with dark circles beneath his eyes.It was him—the scholar from the bridge who sold paintings, the one Mr. Klein had called a hopeless case, a student who had dropped out to care for a woman."You're speaking nonsense," I exclaimed, wide-eyed, a shiver running through me at the thought of his strange words. "I've never heard of any water demons here. You're just trying to trick me."Though I had no fear of death, I was uneasy at the thought of demons, particularly if they were going to trap me beneath the mud."I'm not lying to you." Cassius stepped forward, his frail frame seeming even more fragile against the breeze. "If you look around, you'll see no one is here. Why else would such a lovely place be devoid of visitors?""That's because the people who come here are not tourists. They come to pray, and they leave once t
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1586
After a while, my cousin and her maid returned to find me. I asked the maid to hand thirty copper coins to Cassius. He smiled and thanked me kindly.I thought our meeting was just a chance encounter and I would never see him again. However, to my surprise, during Grandma's birthday celebration a month later, I saw him again.Our family was hosting a grand dinner, and Leonard Klein, a renowned scholar, had come with his apprentices. And there Cassius was, standing among them.In Ebonflow, the rules for social gatherings weren't as strict as in the capital, with women being allowed to be in the front hall during a banquet. Of course, Cassius didn't recognize me. After all, I had been wearing a veil when we first met, so he had only seen my eyes.He didn't stay long. After presenting Grandma with a beautiful painting, he quickly excused himself, saying he had business to attend to at home.Once he left, Mr. Klein spoke of him with a tone of regret, explaining, "He's a clever young man
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1585
Anyone who knew me, Liana Spencer, spoke of me with scorn. Even strangers who heard my story would spit on the ground and say I had no shame.Everyone knew that running away with a man was worse than theft or murder. It was a disgrace no family could easily bear.Many asked me the same question: Did I regret it?I never regretted marrying him, but I did carry guilt in my heart. Because of me, the Spencer family's name was dragged through the mud. My brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews had a much harder time finding good matches because of my choices.As a daughter of the Spencer family, I lived in comfort from the moment I was born. I wore fine dresses, ate the best foods, and was showered with love. My parents doted on me, while my brothers spoiled me terribly.But there was something wrong with me.By the time I was fourteen, I still hadn't gotten my monthly courses. We consulted physician after physician, and I drank countless doses of bitter medicine, day and night. Yet, no
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1584
Snow fell softly in the dead of winter, blanketing Victory Pass in white. At that moment, the world seemed to have been made pure again.For years, I wore nothing but a tattered priest's robe. I carried a broken bowl and wandered from place to place, asking for food. I stopped only briefly at temples along the way to rest for a night or two and kneel before the statues to beg for forgiveness.I could have stayed at the first monastery I was sent to. Life there wasn't easy, but it wasn't so hard either. I had warm meals and shelter from the cold. But I knew if I stayed in comfort, I would never wash away my sins.Only by suffering, by staying on the road and bearing the cold, the hunger, the pain, could I find peace in my heart.And so, I came to Victory Pass.My sandals had long since fallen apart. Thick calluses had grown on my feet; I could walk barefoot over rocks and barely feel a thing. Even with every piece of clothing I owned layered over me, the winter cold still cut throug
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1583
It was during the Verdant Hunt that Connor fell out of favor with Dad, who scolded him harshly before we left the hunting grounds. Once we returned to the palace, Connor fell ill. Ryan and I were both terribly worried, but Mom was delighted.She held me close that evening, her smile sharper than usual. "After this, your father is sure to be tired of your brother."She told me I must work harder than ever, and to listen closely to the royal chancellor and my uncle."Study better than anyone. Earn their praise. And most importantly, outshine your brother," she said.My heart felt torn. Mom often spoke of the rewards that came with being crown prince, and I won't lie, I was tempted. However, those were all distant things.At the time, I was close to Connor, Ryan, and even our youngest brother, Cecil. We all got along so well. How could I possibly hate my older brother?Those thoughts tangled inside me, day after day. I lost focus. My studies slipped. I made mistakes during riding pra
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1582
Before I took the vows and entered the monastery, my name was Caden.From the time I was young, I often heard the same praise whispered around me: "This child is sharp beyond his years—clever, quick-witted, the finest of the three princes."I heard it so often that I came to believe it myself. At times, I even felt proud. But whenever I let that pride rise too high, Mom would bring me back to earth.She would look at me, her eyes soft but filled with something I couldn't quite name—pity, perhaps. And then, she would sigh and say, "What a pity you were born of my womb. If not, you might have risen above that foolish one. But fate favored him, not you."That "foolish one"—I knew well enough who she meant. I had heard her say it so many times in private, though never once in public.It puzzled me greatly as a child. Mom clearly disliked my eldest brother, Connor, more than anyone. Yet, whenever he came near, she would smile warmly and speak kindly. She would even flatter him, calling
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1581
Two childhood friends were now each giving their all on very different paths.Clarence had started with herbs, then medicine, and in time, healing became his entire world at Eldermere Keep. At first, it was merely something to pour his heart into, because he knew he would never be allowed to leave the mountain and open a medical hall of his own.But then Ryan came, and afterward, sent Clarence a letter.That letter changed everything.For the first time, Clarence began to hope that maybe, just maybe, he could go down the mountain after all. And once that hope took root, he threw himself into his studies with more energy than ever before. He barely slept, rarely left the apothecary, and sometimes forgot to eat.Because of the pain he had once endured, he focused his efforts on curing injuries and chronic pain. Of course, a good physician had to know more than one thing, so he studied every field without neglecting any.There was a fire inside him now. A quiet flame that had not bur
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1580
"Elise, must your mouth run on without end?" Carissa frowned at her daughter, who had been chattering away beside Ryan from the moment he stepped through the door.The little girl's face was flushed from the sun, her hair tangled into a messy nest that made it clear she had only just returned from playing outdoors. She hadn't stopped talking since Ryan came back from his travels, pestering him with questions about what he had seen and done.Elise turned to Carissa with wide eyes, looking up with a face so innocent it could soften stone. She truly had inherited the best features from both her parents."Mom, I haven't seen Ryan in such a long time. Every moment without him felt like an eternity. We've been apart for so long, so of course I have a lot to say to him."Carissa's frown deepened. "And who taught you to speak in such a ridiculous manner? An eternity—where did that come from?""Sage Isaac said it to Aunt Violet. He went back to Meadow Ridge for a few days and said it to her
