Semua Bab Her Graceful War Song: Bab 1071 - Bab 1080

The gifts remained untouched in the storage room, and Carissa hadn't even bothered to glance at them.After dinner, she took a lamp and went inside alone.Rafael offered to stay with her, but she refused, insisting she wanted to open the gifts by herself. Even Violet's attempt to join her was turned away at the door.Though Rafael was uneasy, he moved a stool just outside and sat, keeping vigil from the hallway.Dylan had returned with news. When Barrett learned of Aurora's death, he had thrown himself against a wall in a violent fit. His wound bled heavily.Dylan was still in shock. He had seen it with his own eyes—Barrett had slammed into the wall with such force. Dylan felt as though Barrett was trying to end his life right then and there.Luckily, in his rage, Barrett had stumbled, which lessened the blow. Otherwise, there was no doubt he would've died on impact.Confused, Dylan asked Jacob, "Why would he do that? If he wanted to die for Aurora, why didn't he just go with he

Carissa hesitated for a moment before finally taking the letter.She sat down on the wooden chest, holding the letter in her hands for a long time before carefully unfolding it.Wade had never been fond of reading. He preferred carpentry, crafting mechanisms, and excelling in martial arts. Dominic had often chastised him, accusing him of neglecting serious pursuits. Even as a military officer, Wade was expected to understand military strategy and tactics, not just rely on brute strength. Dominic had forced Wade to study through threats and even the occasional caning.But effort without interest—and a near-total lack of talent—meant Wade had never made much progress in academics. His handwriting was notoriously messy. He had once joked that his strokes were a masterpiece of wild grace, a chaotic dance of dragons and snakes that only the truly enlightened could appreciate.Remembering his words, Carissa glanced at the haphazard script and couldn't help but agree.Fortunately, she co

The next day, Carissa woke as if nothing had happened. She took up her riding crop and headed out the door, her demeanor calm and unbothered.Meanwhile, Barrett was nursing severe injuries and had taken a leave of absence. After learning the full story, Salvador was livid. "If he'd truly been loyal, he wouldn't have treated Carissa that way in the first place! And now, injuring himself over a criminal? Neglecting his duties? Disregarding the reputation of his family? He's neither loyal nor devoted. What use is he? A disgrace through and through."Derek observed the situation and knew exactly why the king had been reluctant to abandon Barrett despite repeated offenses. One reason was out of respect for the late General Matthias Warren. Another was to use him to control the Mystic Army. Lastly, it was difficult to remove him right away without affecting the generals at Victory Pass.But with the Westhaven forces retreating, Derek suspected the king's patience was running thin.As

Viola's heart was as cold as ice. She couldn't understand why she kept ending up in this situation.Divorce was always a last resort—something she had never wanted to resort to unless absolutely necessary. She turned to her father-in-law Jonathan and her brother-in-law Benjamin, hoping they could help persuade Barrett. She even went so far as to seek Charlotte's support, who had long been indifferent to their affairs.The death of Amelia had utterly hardened Charlotte's heart. So, it was surprising that she agreed after hearing what Viola said. "Return to the military and starting from the bottom again? That's a good idea. I support it."Viola knew better than to rely on Charlotte. But she thought since the woman was still an elder in the family, Barrett might listen if she stepped in to persuade him.After hearing the words, Viola angrily swept the cup off the table. "If you won't help, at least spare us the cold remarks."With that, she stood up and left.Jonathan and Benjamin

Violet took care of the matter at Skye Embroidery, while Carissa had her own pressing concerns—mainly, the opening of the women's academy.Carissa had already found five teachers—the royal chancellor's granddaughter Rosalind, Meredith's sister-in-law Harriet Wright, the Ashford family's matriarch Catherine, Kyle, and the Wardell family's eldest daughter, who had once served as Meredith's study partner.Athena Wardell was now thirty. She had been engaged to a childhood friend, but he had died on the battlefield while they were preparing for their wedding. Since then, Athena has refused all proposals and had no intention of marrying.Kyle was the only man among the teachers. He was a renowned scholar in Starhaven, known for his noble character and virtuous nature. No one would have objected to him becoming a teacher at the women's academy. In fact, his reputation only drew more students to the school.Catherine had withdrawn from social circles for many years. In her younger years, s