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.

plaque, she kept her gaze lowered, avoiding direct eye contact with the

Salvador called

Your Majesty!" Carissa responded

face, but she still looked striking, her eyes like two shining black

doubted her when she came to the palace seeking help, suspecting she was motivated by personal concerns.

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

you once were, and you've now grown into a general. I am deeply relieved; I

bowed in gratitude

a separate carriage, escorted by the royal guards. He already had a celebratory feast prepared at the palace, which

of the procession, but neither of them was granted a place in the king's carriage, nor were

+15 BONUS

allowed to ride horses.

had been confined to the back of a horse. Though he could dismount and walk with assistance later on, the journey had

by his servants, Benjamin spotted Barrett

with concern, asking,

gaze conflicted as he looked at his

palace banquet,