Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

The Warren family members exchanged puzzled glances. None expected the usually agreeable Carissa to stand her ground so firmly this time.

She even defied Rebecca, the matriarch of the family!

"She'll come around. She doesn't have any other choice," Rebecca said coldly.

That was true.

With Carissa's family gone, she had no one to rely on except the Warren family. Besides, she was still Barrett's rightful wife, and it wasn't like she had been mistreated.

Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu returned to Northwatch Estate.

The estate was bleak and covered in fallen leaves. After just half a year of neglect, the courtyard was overgrown with weeds that were taller than a person. Stepping back into the estate, Carissa's heart ached fiercely.

Six months ago, she had collapsed upon hearing that her family had been massacred. She had wept when she saw the lifeless bodies of her grandmother and mother-their corpses cold and devoid of warmth. Every corner of the estate had been stained with blood.

Memorial plaques for her ancestors and mother had been placed at the estate's family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing.

her parents' memorials. Though her eyes were swollen

please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. It's not that I don't want a peaceful life with a husband and children, but Barrett is not someone I can trust with my life. Rest assured, I promise

beside her, sobbing

were done, they boarded a carriage and headed straight for the palace.

the scorching autumn sun, Carissa and Lulu stood like statues in front of the palace gates.

and said, "My lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks you're here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didn't eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to

"I'm not hungry."

unwavering resolve to dissolve

just let it go? After all, you're still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, she'll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should

you're going to talk

She had hoped that once Barrett returned, Carissa would find some peace. But

the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissa's arrival to the king

waiting outside the palace

was reading and rubbed his temples. "I can't see her. The edict has been issued, and I can't take

leave. She's been standing there for over an

I didn't want