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Chapter 997
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Her Graceful War Song Chapter 998
By the time Michael realized what had happened and tried to take the wine bottle back from Barrett, most of the contents were already gone. Barrett ended up so drunk that he collapsed, unconscious.Michael couldn't get rid of him—not at all.He cursed himself. What had possessed him to drag such a good-for-nothing back? Drinking this much—Barrett couldn't have drunk himself to death, could he?Frustrated, Michael stormed out and brought in a bucket of cold water, ready to douse him. But when he looked at Barrett—lying there as still as a corpse, his face pale and green—he couldn't bring himself to do it.He shook his head, calling for his servants to prepare a carriage. He would personally take Barrett back to Valor Estate.The ride was rough. Inside the carriage, Barrett vomited wildly. Michael could smell the stench of it from outside as he drove the horses. It was like the foul water of a ditch that hadn't been cleaned in years, mixed with the scent of decay.Fuming, Michael s
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 999
In the royal study, Salvador's brows twitched with barely contained fury as he glared at Barrett, who was kneeling before him. His voice was icily cold."Resign? Have you really thought this through?"Barrett lowered his head, his voice trembling. "Your Majesty, I am guilty. I have failed your expectations and the Sullivan family's. I am ashamed before both."Salvador's anger flared, a headache pounding behind his eyes. "If you know how much I've placed my hopes in you, then you should focus on doing your job well, not throwing a tantrum and resigning!"Barrett bowed his head lower. "Your Majesty, I am not throwing a tantrum. I have come to realize my incompetence and inability to live up to the role of deputy commander of the Nightsteel Guard. I ask for your mercy and understanding."Even Derek couldn't watch any longer. To speak so much about guilt was to question the king's judgment. Was that what Barrett was implying?Salvador's voice grew even colder, "Go reflect on your a
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1000
Violet had a way of thinking that was a little different from most people. After a moment of silence, she turned to Carissa and asked, "Is it because he's upset the king demoted him and cut his salary? Is that why he's throwing a tantrum and resigning?"She wasn't sure if Barrett was really like that, but she knew she was.Whenever her family or her mentor offered her less than expected, she would dig in her heels and quit, using retreat as a strategy to gain leverage.Seeing the displeasure on Carissa's face, she quickly added, "Let's not talk about him anymore. He's a nuisance. Since the king won't let him resign, there's nothing more to be done. He can't make a fuss."The others nodded in agreement, shifting the conversation to lighter topics. They ate their honey cakes, and when Rafael didn't return, Lulu suggested saving some for him.After everyone left, Violet turned to Carissa and said, "Actually, it might be a good thing if he resigns. A man like him doesn't deserve to be
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1001
Helen didn't enjoy dining with her son. Their tastes were too different, and the conversation rarely went beyond a few words. But Victoria always insisted, reminding Helen time and time again that, once a month, she had to sit down with him for a meal. Otherwise, the servants would gossip and say that Rafael and Carissa were disrespectful.Helen sighed. That was just how life was—constantly bound by all sorts of obligations, never able to follow one's heart's desire.Gillian always said Helen didn't know how to appreciate her blessings, but she didn't believe there was such a thing as a truly carefree life. Even in the best of times, there were problems to worry about. Even the wealthiest, most powerful people had their burdens to bear.She would enjoy the good moments when they came, and when she was troubled, she would keep to herself—she had every right to her worries.Rafael and Carissa weren't the chatty types, so they would ask Violet to join them for meals. Violet had a knac
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1002
Kevin wanted a martial arts mentor for two reasons. The first was because he genuinely loved martial arts. The second was because it was a means to an end, a stepping stone to his promotion.But he had plenty of patience. If it didn't work in three years, he would wait five. If five years passed with no success, he would wait ten. The longer he stayed at Salvador's side, the more experience he gained. If he didn't give up, he would eventually succeed.Of course, he had his sights set on specific goals—he aimed to be promoted to deputy captain and then captain within three to five years.So, when Salvador summoned him and granted him the position of deputy commander of the Nightsteel Guard, Kevin was completely stunned.He had never been caught off guard in court before—this was the first time.It was Ian who kicked him sharply, muttering with a laugh, "What are you daydreaming about? Don't you know how to thank His Majesty?"Kevin's trembling hands pressed against his chest as he
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1003
The next day, Kevin brought his parents, wife, and children to visit Violet. He also brought along a generous selection of gifts.Violet had already heard about Kevin's promotion the night before—Carissa had been the one to tell her. At first, it didn't make much of an impression. After all, it was just a promotion.When she saw Kevin arrive with his whole family in tow to express their thanks, however, her mood changed. Everyone's faces were beaming with joy, as if they had stumbled upon a chest of gold. It was clear they were thrilled.Violet felt the joy of his promotion firsthand. When she learned more about it, she understood how rare it was. In the king's service, promotions didn't come easily. Unless someone accomplished a great feat, like saving the king, it could take years—one long year after another—to climb the ranks.However, faced with Kevin's family's deep gratitude, Violet felt undeserving. She hadn't contributed to his rise. This was all due to Kevin's hard work an
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1004
Carissa had long accepted this reality. She turned to Travis and asked, "So, has anyone claimed her body?""Lord Klein said he contacted her family. Her parents are both gone, so her brothers-in-law are in charge now. They said a woman who was cast out and then drowned herself in the river was bad luck. They wouldn't take her back.""What about her husband and his family?" Violet asked. However, she regretted asking as soon as the words left her mouth. After all, why would they want to take her back once they had cast her out?"Her husband is marrying a new wife in a few days. Why would he help with her funeral?" Travis replied.Violet's brows furrowed in disgust. "He's marrying so soon? That scoundrel has no conscience."Carissa shook her head. "I'm guessing he had someone else lined up already."Violet's eyes suddenly widened. "But she was cast out because she had no children. Did she have a dowry? Doesn't that mean her family lost out?"Carissa sighed. "They were common fol
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1005
When Hannah heard that the woman's last name was Lloyd, she couldn't help but sigh even more deeply.A simple coffin, two sets of clothes—one worn by Hollis, and the other for burial alongside her.Hannah had a kind heart. She learned that Hollis had been working for a ready-made clothing shop and earned a living by making embroidered pieces. Hannah bought the clothes for Hollis at the same shop. The shopkeeper had mentioned that both sets of embroidered clothing were made by Hollis herself.Hollis was born in March 34 years ago and passed away this March. Her birthdate and death date were only eight days apart.The death of a discarded woman barely caused a ripple, like a small stone thrown into a lake—just a tiny disturbance, and then nothing more. No one spoke of it again.However, there was a storyteller who shared the news of how Skye Embroidery had arranged for Hollis' burial. He also spoke about how indifferent Hollis' husband and family were regarding her death. Those wh
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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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1404
As Nicholas was paraded through the streets, the weight of his downfall crushed him entirely. His sanity fractured and he screamed curses at the people, accusing them of ignorance and foolishness. He raged at the masses, claiming they had been deceived by the court, that they had mistaken a foolish king for a wise ruler. He claimed that only he was the true sovereign—the one destined to bring justice and prosperity.His hoarse cries were drowned out by the roar of the crowd. The people shouted for his death, calling for him to be torn apart. They said that the execution by Torso Cleaving was far too merciful. They demanded he be cut into pieces and slowly tortured to death, as punishment for his evil deeds.On the other hand, Yuvan stayed silent the whole time. Inside, he was filled with resentment and hatred for Nicholas. He believed that if Nicholas hadn't turned his people against him, he could have succeeded.Nicholas was like a poisonous snake, hiding in the shadows. When Yuv
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1403
Now that everyone had been gathered, the long-awaited reckoning could finally begin.After thorough investigations by the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Justice, in cooperation with the Capital Guard, it was confirmed that Yuvan, Nicholas, and his associates were indeed guilty of treason.The charges were indisputable. After such a long delay, it was time to list all their crimes for the world to see.Yuvan's entire family—except for Randall, who had provided valuable information—was sent to Astral Prison. However, Randall was also removed from the royal registry. He remained in his post at the Supreme Court, still serving as warden. Despite that, it was clear that any prospects for promotion were now out of reach for the next ten years.Matthew had ordered Randall to take a temporary leave, telling him to stay away from Astral Prison and reflect quietly at home while the matter was sorted.Matthew thought Randall was a bit slow, but at least the latter was honest and willing t
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1402
Clifford's eyes gleamed with a sharp light. "Very well. Let's hear some of your self-righteous words."Salvador, ever the suspicious soul, had always been wary of the Hell Monarch's household. Even if Carissa hadn't risen for women's rights, Salvador would still remain cautious of her.How could Carissa not know Clifford's intentions? From the moment he asked, she knew it was a trap.Before she could respond, Clifford sneered and added, "You can always start by flattering King Salvador. Praise him for how he treats women under his rule. As long as your conscience is clear, feel free to do so."Carissa was infuriated, but she wasn't willing to be baited. She met his mocking, challenging gaze. "Don't make assumptions. That's not the same thing at all. You think people are ignorant and narrow-minded as they can't understand your preferences, so you resort to extreme measures to gain their approval. But that's your personal problem. You can't speak for others like you, and you're not
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1401
Gerald and Clifford met in the Supreme Court's interrogation room. They sat across from each other, an old wooden table between them. Carissa sat behind the scribe's desk, not far from them. Even if they spoke in hushed tones, she could hear every word clearly.The only sounds in the room were the quiet rustle of breath, the steady beat of hearts, and occasionally, the almost imperceptible sound of a sigh.Yet, no words passed between them.Neither of them exchanged even a fleeting glance. It was as if they were two strangers who were forced to sit together—distant, indifferent.Carissa wondered if it was her presence that made things so strained, though she could not leave. All she could do was endure the awkward silence alongside them.At last, Gerald asked, "Why?"Gerald was truly baffled, struggling to reconcile the person before him with the image of someone he thought he knew. No matter how he looked at Clifford, he could not align the two.Clifford clasped his hands tog
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1400
As Carissa returned to the Capital Guard Headquarters the next morning, Heather intercepted her at the door.It had been a long while since Carissa had last seen Heather. In fact, it seemed Heather had kept herself mostly secluded lately.Since Harvey had been brought back to the capital, his son Lennon Sanford had not been captured, but Chester's forces continued their search. It was almost certain that the boy would be caught soon enough.Heather, anxious that Lennon might be implicated and face the same brutal punishment of beheading, rushed to Carissa for help.Carissa knew Heather had already tried appealing to Leona when Harvey was first brought back. She had asked Leona to talk to Carissa on her behalf. Yet Leona had refused, and she never mentioned the matter to Carissa. Carissa only learned of this from Alana."Carissa!" Heather hurried toward her, her face frantic with worry. "I need to speak with you. Could we find a quiet place to talk?""I have matters to attend to.
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1399
In her study, Carissa wrote a letter. Then, she handed it to Jacob with instructions to have it delivered to Rafael in the Southern Frontier.She knew the situation in the Southern Frontier. Victor was amassing troops but neither attacking nor retreating, keeping things in a stalemate.Everyone knew that Victor was just stalling. He had been given a military order to invade the Southern Frontier, but since Nicholas had failed, he could not return with any captured cities or military achievements to report.If Victor made a hasty retreat now, he would likely lose more than just his position—his life might be forfeited as well. He attempted to forge alliances with the nomads, hoping to find a way out—perhaps a way to secure his future or an escape from certain doom.The nomads, tired of conflict, had no interest in picking sides. Caught in the middle, they were doing everything they could to remain neutral, refusing to aid either side. If they really had to choose, they would choos
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1398
At precisely three in the afternoon, the long execution block was brought forward. The block was forged from ironwood, solid and unyielding. It was the only one of its kind in Starhaven, used solely for execution by Torso Cleaving.The block had been kept in storage for years.Augustus had once deemed the act of Torso Cleaving too brutal. Even those who committed the most grievous offenses were spared this form of execution. Yet, the punishment had not been abolished. It remained a tool to strike fear into the hearts of would-be traitors.The cruelty of Torso Cleaving lay in the fact that after a person was cleaved in two, the upper body could still crawl, struggle, and leave behind a bloody trail.Normally, Torso Cleaving wasn't meant to be witnessed by the public. But treason, betraying the kingdom, and plotting to overthrow the throne were considered unforgivable crimes. Salvador didn't know how many people had dealings with the traitors, and some conspirators were too deepl
