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Chapter 864
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 865
The next day, the young couple set out. Rafael pretended to ask Violet if she wanted to join them.Violet shot him a puzzled glance. He had already said last night that he was taking Carissa out for the day. He also specifically said they would be going alone and leaving everyone behind, even Dylan. Wasn't it a bit fake to ask her now?Even if Rafael hadn't mentioned it, Violet wouldn't have gone. She had her hands full dealing with the embroidery workshop, which was still under renovation. It made sense for her to keep an eye on things.Besides, if her supervision wasn't needed, she could always accompany Helen out to a coffeehouse and indulge in some shopping and dining. After all, there were lovely places like Glimmering Tower and The Golden Tower to explore.Why venture out into the cold and face the biting mountain winds when there was so much to enjoy right here?At Glimmering Tower, Rafael ordered a selection of dishes. They were all staple dishes and nothing extravagant, b
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 866
The further they ascended the mountain, the more Rafael felt that something was off.There were no vibrant mountain flowers or rushing streams as Thomas had described—only bare trees and endless stretches of white snow. At this time of year, the waterfalls had all but disappeared, leaving behind the starkness of early winter.It wasn't that the snow wasn't beautiful. After spending so long at the Southern Frontier, the prince had grown weary of snow. If only there were flowing water and winter blooms to complement the landscape, it would have made all the difference.But there was nothing—not a single orchid to be found. It was almost laughable.However, to the north of Richspire Peak, there was a steep slope covered in unblemished snow, free of obstacles. It was a perfect spot for sledding and skiing.Changing his approach, Rafael led Carissa with a burst of energy, using his Lightfoot Skill to dash across to the northern slope. Reaching the peak, he caught his breath and turned
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 867
It was both frustrating and amusing.Carissa supported the limping Rafael as they slowly made their way down the mountain. His hair was a mess, sticking up in a strange, wet clump after hitting the snow, creating an odd, wild look.His face was a patchwork of bruises—blue, purple, and red. The red came from a cut that had bled; luckily, the wounds were shallow and, combined with the cold, had stopped bleeding quickly. A lump the size of an egg swelled on his forehead, a sight that was both pitiful and funny.Fighting, strategizing, and governing were all his strengths, but games like this? He was utterly lost. Sliding down the slope had turned into a comical disaster.Who knew skiing could be so hazardous?Everyone knew not to underestimate water, but mountains could be just as treacherous—especially mountains that only got covered with snow during the coldest days of winter, hiding sharp rocks just beneath the surface. The terrain here was nothing like the Southern Frontier, and
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 868
After Jacob had sent Dylan off to sweep the courtyard as punishment, Livius from Arcane Sanctum arrived. He was Sebastian's sixth apprentice—a young, exceptionally skilled physician. He usually stayed at Arcane Sanctum and seldom made house calls.Since Rafael was injured, Sebastian had specifically dispatched Livius to conduct a thorough examination to ensure that nothing vital had been harmed. Rafael was young and still without children. On top of that, he was taking contraceptive medication. How could Sebastian not be worried for him?As Helen and Violet returned from shopping, they heard the news about Rafael's injury, prompting Helen to hurry over.Livius was already treating the prince when Carissa noticed Helen's arrival and quickly greeted the older woman."Hello, Mother."Helen responded with a brief acknowledgment, her eyes immediately searching for her son. Rafael hadn't had a chance to bathe after returning home, so his hair remained tousled. Upon seeing his bruised fa
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 869
Carissa hurried back inside, soothing Helen and sending her on her way.Even after stepping outside, Helen continued, "It's true! You're married now, so what's there to be shy about? When you were younger, you used to tell me everything! I still remember the time a mosquito bit you down there, and you stripped off your pants so I could apply medicine…""Mom!" Rafael's roar echoed through the room.Carissa quickly called for Violet to take over leading Helen away, and instructed Qiana and Sydney to prepare hot water. Carissa would wash Rafael's hair herself.Since he couldn't soak in the hot springs, he sat in the bath chamber, leaning forward as Carissa washed his hair while trying to avoid getting his feet wet. Though he felt a bit useless, the sensation of her fingers massaging his scalp and working through his hair brought a warm, sweet happiness amid the embarrassment.He comforted himself with the thought that if it weren't for this injury, he wouldn't be receiving such speci
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 870
Helen often spoke of Sigmund. Sometimes she praised him, and other times, she complained. But whenever his name came up, she adopted the demeanor of a spoiled little girl, as if she had never really grown up.She had been the most carefree concubine in the palace, occupying her position without having to navigate any intricate schemes. Even if there were plots against her, they never targeted her directly as Victoria always stood guard on her behalf.Helen had been pampered growing up, then pampered again while having children. And now, she was pampered by her daughter-in-law. It seemed she never needed to worry about anything.Yet, she still found trivial matters to fret over, like squabbles with Dakota or Josephine and wanting to compete with them. When she won, she kicked her legs in joy. When she lost, she puffed her cheeks in annoyance for a while. Eventually, those feelings would pass.Even when Eleanor and Jessica schemed against her, she would only feel anger for a moment b
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 871
Whether criticized or understood, news about the embroidery workshop ultimately spread far and wide. The official establishment of the workshop right after the New Year was thanks to Jacob's diligent supervision and the fact that the necessary paperwork had been completed early, with Luke in charge of procurement.Violet tossed a bundle of banknotes into the air and confidently declared, "If it's not enough, just ask me for more!"Luke didn't go shopping by himself. He was accompanied by the Defense Minister's wife, Hannah. They bought everything imaginable—furniture, bedding, pots and pans, looms, assorted threads, embroidery needles, and even chamber pots.Having managed a household for many years, Hannah worked seamlessly with Luke, who oversaw the daily affairs of Hell Monarch Estate. Within just a few days, they had acquired all the essentials. Any custom items would be delivered after the New Year.The embroidery workshop was named Skye Embroidery. Kyle personally wrote it, w
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 872
Barrett's eyes darkened with sorrow. "I know I've disappointed you, Sebastian. I regret my choices deeply.""When the Duke of Northwatch's family was choosing a son-in-law, they set the bar so high. Yet, they chose you. Do you know what Madam Sinclair saw in you?"Barrett's voice got stuck in his throat as Sebastian mentioned his late former mother-in-law."I do. She said I was earnest and honest, and that I promised I would never take a concubine… It was my fault. I broke that promise. I let her down.""That's part of it," Sebastian said. "The second reason is that, even though you're the second son, you were willing to shoulder your family's burdens. It showed you had a sense of responsibility. To put it bluntly, it was going to be hard to restore your family's reputation then, and even harder with just you at the helm."In the struggle to carve out a future, she believed you would have the same tenacity and focus as the late General Sinclair. People who are solid and responsibl
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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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1579
Though Ryan had told Cecil he was going on a journey, he didn't stay long at Eldermere Keep. After just seven days, he left and made his way to the Pathfinders Guild.He had initially planned to return to the capital to seek out Claire, but soon reconsidered. Instead of troubling her, he thought it best to directly ask Winona to teach him the art of disguise.It was not difficult to learn, but to do it well—to the point where no one could tell—was another matter. Such skill could not be acquired in just a few months.The simpler form of disguise involved merely altering one's features with makeup and slight adjustments to the face. This was fine for ordinary situations, but could easily be seen through in more challenging circumstances, like on a rainy day for instance.Therefore, Ryan knew he couldn't settle for such a basic method.The more advanced form of disguise involved creating a mask as a false face. However, these masks had their own set of problems. They were thick, unco
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1578
That evening, Ryan and Clarence sat by candlelight and spoke quietly. They avoided discussing court politics as Clarence had no interest in such matters. As long as the kingdom was peaceful, that was enough for him.He was no longer the eldest prince of Starhaven, and only had himself to look after now. Everything else had faded into the past.It was better not to speak of politics; it was too sensitive a topic. In his younger years, Clarence hadn't understood why his "death" was so tied to such matters. But over the years, Sebastian had explained everything to him, bit by bit, including the risks and consequences.The bond between Clarence and Cecil was not without affection. However, to gamble with one's life and future for the sake of family might not be the wisest choice for any of them.Clarence had come to terms with it. Life had to go on; it was better to live it well today than to wonder about tomorrow."Aunt Carissa said you're no longer able to stand, but you were walking
