Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 72

Carissa's hair was a tangled mess. It was stiff with dried blood from the battle, and there were strands clumped together in all directions. Even a bird's nest looked better.

Her wooden armor was torn and stained with blood, and her face was a canvas of grime and mud. She hadn't bathed or washed herself in many days, and even the beggars on the street would appear neater compared to her.

"Are you uncomfortable?" Rafael asked, recalling how vibrant and lively she had been each year when visiting the Pathfinders Guild.

She seemed like a completely different person now.

Carissa's cracked lips parted to utter a single word. "Hungry!"

Rafael snorted. "Yes, we're all hungry. Just bear with it."

"I'm so exhausted!" Carissa replied weakly, "I'm so tired I can barely stand."

"Carissa!" Rafael said sternly. "Do you realize that no general in Starhaven's history has defeated so many enemies on their first battlefield? Not even your father You've done something remarkable. So, hold your head up high and walk out there with pride."

Carissa straightened up, adopting a proud posture, even though she hobbled with a pained limp and used her Rose Spear as a makeshift cane. Then, she made her way out of the command tent.

Rafael followed her, smiling, but there was a touch of sadness in his eyes. He had watched her grow up, and had once thought.... Supplies of food had arrived from Tower City. Although it wasn't much, it was enough to give the soldiers a good meal.

for a meeting. Carissa, still leaning on her Rose Spear, limped into the tent. Inside, everyone looked at her

the next battle. He pushed a chess piece across the

number and weaponry of the allied forces of Westhaven and Sandoria, attacking the city

task.

Carissa asked, "A feigned

his gaze to her.

a feigned attack. The second time is also

her over. "Commander Sinclair, come

1/2

+15 BONUS

as support, Carissa walked

"How did you

"Marshal, that

heartily. "Once you're a

years, to ache painfully. Rafael's fingers were rough and calloused, and the pinch felt

her face.

the

avoid awkwardness if he and Aurora arrived with reinforcements and everyone still thought they were married. She also thought it might prevent