Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 140

The melody stirred every heart, making blood surge and eyes blaze with heat. As the drums' final, heavy beats signaled the end of the performance, silence fell over the crowd.

Carrying Hector's memorial plaque, Rafael lifted it high as if to let Hector enter the city first. With the plaque raised, he stepped forward into the city, followed by the others. Everyne holding a plaque remained silent and solemn.

Once inside the city, they knelt before Salvador.

"I, Rafael Sanford, together with the late Hector Sinclair and our soldiers, have returned victorious. Thanks to your blessings, Your Majesty, as well as the blessings of Starhaven's ancestors, we have fulfilled our mission and reclaimed the Southern Frontier," Rafael loudly declared.

His voice echoed through the city gates, resonating through the capital.

Like an explosion, the crowd erupted into cheers, filled with both joy and tears.

Salvador felt his eyes burn as he personally stepped forward to help Rafael to his feet. Gazing at Hector's plaque with deep emotion, he choked up several times, struggling to find his voice.

"Rise. By my decree, all the armies involved will be rewarded!"

"On behalf of all the soldiers, I thank you for your great favor, Your Majesty!" Rafael replied.

and proud. Holding her brother's plaque, she kept her gaze lowered, avoiding direct eye contact

Salvador called

Your Majesty!" Carissa

her once-beautiful face, but she

He had doubted her when she came to the palace seeking help, suspecting she was motivated by personal concerns. But she had proven herself with her strength, showing everyone that she

in front of the court officials and citizens. "Together with the Hell Monarch and the generals holding the plaques, you will ride in my carriage for a procession around the city. All other soldiers will follow and receive the citizens' welcome. You are all heroes who reclaimed the Southern Frontier, and Starhaven will forever remember your deeds." Carissa's eyelashes fluttered with emotion. “Understood. Thank

the little girl you once were, and you've now grown into a general. I am deeply relieved; I believe your father's spirit in heaven feels reassured as

in gratitude at the king's

back to the palace in a separate carriage, escorted by the royal guards. He already had a celebratory

neither of them was granted

+15 BONUS

allowed to ride horses.

For at least half of their journey back to the capital, he had been confined to the back of a horse. Though he could dismount and walk with assistance later on, the journey had left him too battered to endure the jolting of the horse, so he had to be supported as

his servants, Benjamin spotted Barrett among

injured, he hurried over with concern, asking, "

gaze conflicted as he looked at

banquet,