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Chapter 998
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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
Her Graceful War Song Chapter 1006
Carissa furrowed her brow. "Why would she go to the workshop?"Skye Embroidery had been advertised as a place for women who had been abandoned or cast out—those with nowhere to go and struggling to make a living. Jessica should still be able to survive after her divorce. As far as Carissa knew, Jessica owned several properties and shops. Even after being cast out, she could continue living a comfortable life.The maid from the Lloyd family explained, "She said she had nowhere else to go and insisted on staying. She even insulted Madam Hannah and claimed that since the workshop takes in divorced women, she qualifies. If she's not allowed in, then the workshop is just pretending to help and is being hypocritical. Madam Hannah was so upset that she sent me to inform you and Ms. Spencer, Your Grace."The moment Violet heard that Hannah had been insulted, she couldn't hold herself back. "I'll go," she said immediately.Davis often called his wife a "mother tigress", but in truth, Ha
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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
