MasukShare
Chapter 954
Bab terkait
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 955
Rafael wisely avoided commenting on the previous subject and quickly changed the topic. "When did you arrive? Why didn't you send someone to let me know?""You have your own things to handle. I'm just here to keep an eye on things for you. How's everything going? Have you captured the target?" Everett asked.From Everett's tone, it was clear he was already aware of the assassination attempt that had taken place earlier that evening. Rafael, looking rather pleased with himself, answered proudly, "Carissa and the others have already apprehended Commander Icarus and delivered him to the Supreme Court. He claimed to be the best fighter in Westhaven, but ended up being utterly defeated when he faced Carissa."Everett responded with a neutral grunt before casting a brief glance at Carissa. "She has no real skills except for her martial arts. Icarus isn't the top fighter in Westhaven, either. That kingdom has many skilled warriors who choose not to serve in the court. Beating him isn't
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 956
The confession was written entirely in Stellish, which Westhaven envoys couldn't fully understand. The two interpreters read it aloud in Westic for them.Icarus took full responsibility for the plot, explaining that his motive stemmed from Hector's past victory of Westhaven, which had resulted in the deaths of many Westhaven soldiers. He also harbored a deep grudge against the Sullivan family, particularly Carissa, whose grandfather, Dominic, had guarded Victory Pass for many years and fought in countless battles. Consumed by hatred, Icarus had seized the opportunity to strike at Carissa when he came to the capital, hoping to vent his anger.Even after hearing the confession, the Westhaven envoys didn't seem any less tense. Regardless of their stance, this meant the attempt on Carissa's life was tied to Victory Pass.The Westhaven envoys couldn't help but respect the Hell Monarch for his straightforwardness in not bringing this matter to the negotiating table directly. Instead, he h
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 957
Leroy was seething with frustration. Today's negotiations had been his opportunity to take the initiative by demanding accountability and making unacceptable conditions, then declaring the talks a failure. After that, he would return to Westhaven and declare war.Yet now, not only had he been unable to follow through with his plan, the negotiations had also shifted into a disadvantageous position. To make matters worse, his niece, the grand princess, was looking down on him. The humiliation gnawed at him.Jeremiah, who had been sitting quietly to the side, felt a sense of resolve settle over him as he watched the proceedings. If they could negotiate peacefully, that would be ideal. The massacre in Fawnrun City was Starhaven's fault, and they were willing to offer apologies, compensation, and make amends—but only if given a chance for peaceful negotiations.Westhaven had distributed the case files regarding the Fawnrun City incident, which contained numerous firsthand accounts from
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 958
Lisandra spoke first. She believed Starhaven had violated the agreement between the two kingdoms, which was to not harm civilians or execute prisoners of war. The slaughter of civilians and the brutal treatment of a war prisoner during wartime were actions that would outrage both man and god. Similarly, the massacre of the Sinclair family by Westhaven's spies was a grave mistake."We seek peaceful negotiations, and for that to happen, both sides must acknowledge these facts. Only with that understanding can we proceed with talks for peace between our kingdoms."Once the translator relayed her words, both Rafael and the negotiating officials from Starhaven agreed with her.Thus, the negotiations officially began.Westhaven put forward five conditions. Firstly, Starhaven must issue a formal apology to the people of Westhaven for the lives lost. Second, Starhaven was to pay compensation of 10,000 gold coins.Third, compensation of 3,000,000 bushels of grain was to be delivered to
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 959
After the Westhaven envoys left the Diplomatic Affairs Department and returned to their lodgings, the Starhaven negotiators remained behind and continued discussions about the next round of talks.Jeremiah was involved in the conversation, his voice calm but firm. "If we're going to compensate with grain, we can't offer such a large quantity. Last year, there was a poor harvest and the military wages were insufficient. If we give them 3,000,000 bushels of grain, we're essentially funding their war efforts. We can compensate, but it can't exceed 300,000 bushels."He paused, then added, "Also, His Majesty insists that we cannot make any concessions on the border issue."Having delivered his points, he left the room. From the way Rafael had been conducting the negotiations, Jeremiah felt confident in the direction they were heading.Meanwhile, at the Ministry of Justice, Barrett requested a meeting with Patrick.After his conversation with Aurora the previous night, Barrett had bee
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 960
Once Carissa arrived at Silverstone Estate, she quickly briefed Zoey on the situation. Zoey immediately said, "This involves General Sullivan, so not a moment can be wasted. I'll go immediately."Since Barrett had been taken to the Ministry of Justice, Viola had been on edge. She had even returned to her family for help, hoping they could pull some strings on Barrett's behalf. However, Zoey outright refused."This is a matter between kingdoms," Zoey had said. "What could a woman like me possibly do to change anything?"Still, Zoey had made inquiries. She learned that while Barrett was detained at the Ministry of Justice, he was being given special treatment and hadn't suffered any undue hardship.Zoey shared this information with Viola, but it did little to calm her. She complained incessantly, saying she had worked so hard to see Barrett appointed as commander of the Nightsteel Guard, only for him to end up in prison because of Aurora. She even blamed Natalie for arranging the m
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 961
Leila had heard that Zoey was investigating the servants in Valor Estate, but she had no idea what it was about. When she was brought in, she wore an expression of complete confusion.It wasn't until Zoey questioned her about having coffee with a friend from her hometown the day before Rebecca's funeral that Leila realized what was happening. She quickly dropped to her knees and confessed, "Madam Zoey, that day, the person I had coffee with was a close friend of mine. She's a maid at Lester Estate. She mentioned she'd be returning to our hometown and asked if I had any messages for my family. She also invited me to go shopping for some gifts together..."Having been questioning for a long time, Zoey grew a bit impatient. She interrupted and asked bluntly, "Did she ask you to pass on any messages to Aurora that day?"Leila thought for a moment, then replied, "Yes, she asked me to tell Madam Aurora that Mrs. Lester would also be attending Madam Rebecca's funeral.""Did she give you
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 962
After seeing Zoey off, Carissa and Violet returned to the council hall.Most matters had previously been discussed in the large study, but since Everett had arrived, he insisted that important matters be reported in the council hall. He would remain in the hall from morning until night, listening to everything that was brought before him.Rafael hadn't returned yet even though the negotiations had concluded hours ago. It was likely that he was still in discussion with the delegation about tomorrow's talks.Once Carissa finished reporting the day's findings to Everett, he gave a conclusion everyone was already aware of."It's a case of silencing witnesses—tracing the killer leads nowhere."Kyle spoke up, his voice thoughtful, "Sir, is it possible that Aurora never had to speak with the Westhaven people at all? That someone else already reached out to them and is just focusing all the blame on Dominic?""But Harvey has already fled," Carissa replied. "I doubt Leroy would trust him
Bab terbaru
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1522
In Tranquil Palace, Cecil sat still in a chair while Phoebe carefully dried his damp hair."You just washed your hair the other day, and now your hair and face are covered in fur after you went out to play with that little raccoon. If this happens again, I'll smack you on the backside," she said with an air of annoyance.The child, with delicate features and bright eyes, leaned into his sister's embrace. He smiled widely and said, "But the little raccoon is so fun and cute! It walks all over me with its little feet, and it's so cozy when I hold it."Phoebe sighed. "Mom said that Dad doesn't like raccoons. You keep telling him about it. No wonder he's been avoiding you lately."Cecil remained perfectly still, letting his sister continue to comb his hair.But he wasn't one to back down, so he said, "Dad and I are two different people. We each have our own likes and dislikes. Just because Dad doesn't like something doesn't mean I can't like it. I really like the raccoon. I love it. N
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1521
Jeanette didn't notice the subtle smirk tugging at the corner of Calista's lips.The maid had been by her side since her time as a mid-ranked concubine. Smart and composed, Calista often offered Jeanette advice.When Kylie had tried to win Jeanette over, Calista had warned that the queen's repeated house arrests were a sign Salvador no longer favored her. She had suggested Jeanette steer clear of Kylie, who held no authority over the harem, and instead align herself with Grace and Sylvia.Calista had been right. Grace had treated Jeanette well, providing her with everything she needed, making it so no one dared to look down on her anymore.But things had changed.Grace, once a true ally, was now using Jeanette's pregnancy to get closer to Salvador. Jeanette couldn't help but feel uncomfortable about it."Do you not like Lady Grace's visits?" Calista asked as she adjusted the pillows to lift Jeanette's head and back.Long days in bed had begun to wear on her; her back ached from
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1520
Jeanette's pregnancy had been stable at first, with Dorian assuring her there were no major concerns. But for some unknown reason, after the beginning of winter, things started to falter. She had even experienced spotting twice.Dorian did everything he could to stabilize the pregnancy and managed to keep it steady, but Jeanette was ordered to stay in bed and not get up.The sudden change in her condition had drawn the full attention of the royal physicians. After checking her diet and everything the palace provided, nothing unusual was found. The best guess was that the king's prolonged use of medication was affecting the stability of the pregnancy.Salvador was deeply anxious about the baby. Ever since Jeanette was confined to her bed, he had visited her almost every other day, sometimes staying to share a meal. Because of this, he hadn't been able to visit Sylvia or call Cecil to the royal study.As Grace was in charge of the harem, she also made time to visit Jeanette, often br
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1519
Many in the harem were speculating about Salvador's health. Even though Jeanette was pregnant, Sebastian's continued presence in the palace suggested the king needed more than rest and care.Because of this, Salvador's clear favoritism was starting to unsettle some people.Kylie, in particular, was uneasy. She knew some details about the king's condition, and though Sebastian was now in the palace, she wasn't sure how effective the treatment would be. But she couldn't shake the feeling that Salvador was nearing his limits.Jeanette's pregnancy didn't concern her much. The baby's gender remained unknown, and even if it was a son, the queen knew it wouldn't change her own standing.However, Salvador's obvious favoritism toward Cecil left Kylie feeling threatened.When he offered her a choice previously, she had chosen to keep her position as queen for the sake of survival. But after some time, she realized that Salvador wouldn't give up on Connor so easily, especially given how dili
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1518
With Salvador having summoned the court officials to the royal study, the discussions continued late into the night. It was only when Sebastian stepped in to interrupt, informing them that the hour had grown late, that the session came to a close."Has it really gotten this late? Let's call it a night, then. The palace gates will be locked soon," said Salvador, stretching his arms with a smile.Despite the late hour, the king appeared to be in high spirits, especially with the color back in his face. He hardly resembled a man suffering from illness.Carissa waited for Rafael to finish his meeting before leaving the palace with him. Exhausted, she leaned against his shoulder and drifted into a deep, drowsy sleep.When the carriage arrived at the estate, Rafael lifted her into his arms. Carissa, half-conscious, recognized the motion but was too tired to protest. She simply let him carry her inside, finding comfort in his strong embrace.Over the past three months, she had only been
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1517
On the fifteenth of October, the envoy delegation finally returned to the capital.The Mystic Army dispersed on the spot, while Davis, Alden, and the other officials made their way to the palace to report to the king. Kendrick, who had been weak and unable to stand on his own, seemed to find strength now. He insisted that he accompany them to the palace as well.As for Carissa, Rafael had been waiting at the city gates for her. Every day, he had someone stationed there. Sometimes, during his midday breaks, he would go himself. Today, he finally caught sight of her.While Davis and the others were reporting at the palace, Carissa went to see Helen with Rafael. Seeing her daughter-in-law's fatigue, Helen urged her to hurry and bathe and change. With that, the couple returned to Orchid Hall.When Carissa emerged in fresh clothes after her bath, her lips were oddly swollen. Joy stared at her, surprised. Without thinking, she glanced at Rafael. It seemed that when Carissa was bathing, R
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1516
After resting at Victory Pass for five days, Kendrick finally recovered. Now that he was well, it was time to set off for the capital.Though Carissa was reluctant to part with her family, she could only say a tearful farewell. She bowed deeply to Dominic, nearly causing tears to spill from his own eyes.Davis, who held the utmost respect for Dominic, was the most emotional. While Carissa silently wept, Davis openly wept. He knew this was likely the last time he would ever see the venerable old general, who had served Starhaven in Victory Pass for decades.Dominic was already in the twilight years of his life, and he looked much frailer than the last time they had met. Even though Salvador had granted him leave to return to the capital, the long, grueling journey would likely be too much for him to bear, and the Sullivan family might not permit him to make the trip.Dominic spoke with Davis for a while, and the latter's sobs grew louder.Cindy had never asked about the details of
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1515
The journey home began in early September. The heat of summer had passed, replaced by a cool breeze.Liam personally escorted the delegation, accompanying them all the way to Fawnrun City.The return journey was uneventful—no more attempts on their lives, and everything proceeded smoothly. Once they crossed the rolling mountains, they entered Starhaven's territory.They hadn't notified Dominic in advance, so Carissa didn't expect anyone to be there to greet them. But as soon as they crossed into Starhaven, they saw Barrett leading the Sullivan Army, waiting for them.Relief was clear on Barrett's face when he saw they had returned safely. He rode forward, then dismounted and greeted Kendrick, Davis, and the others."Your Highness, Mr. Lloyd, esteemed lords, Grand General Sullivan sent me to wait here. I will escort you back to Victory Pass."Davis raised an eyebrow. "How did Grand General Sullivan know we were returning today?""He didn't know, but he ordered us to wait here eve
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1514
"This journey was not only for the sake of Orivenia and Starhaven, but also for Nerathia. No need for thanks; relations between kingdoms are always driven by mutual interests. It is only through personal friendship that true sincerity arises," Faelan replied.Carissa nodded thoughtfully, but curiosity got the better of her. "Might I ask if you know my mentor, Adrian Russell?"Faelan chuckled. "I do. He has been to Nerathia and even stayed at my training grounds for a time. My guard commander, Shadow, is quite close with your mentor. They would often drink together.""Ah, I see," Carissa mused, thinking back to the shadowy figures she had seen.She wondered which of them was the esteemed Shadow. It would be a great pity if she couldn't meet him.As if reading her mind, Faelan chuckled. "In three or five years, we'll visit Starhaven. When the time comes, I'll introduce you to Shadow."Carissa was about to express her thanks, but Violet interjected, "Why wait three or five years? Co
