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

Salvador

Majesty!" Carissa

journey had darkened her once-beautiful face, but she still

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 was Hector's daughter,

and the generals holding the plaques, you will ride in my carriage for a procession around the city. All other soldiers

grown into a general. I am deeply relieved; I believe your father's spirit in heaven feels reassured as well,"

in gratitude at the

the palace in a separate carriage, escorted by the royal guards. He

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

+15 BONUS

allowed to ride horses.

because he had taken Aurora's punishment. 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

by his servants, Benjamin spotted

brother injured, he hurried over with concern, asking, "

conflicted as he looked at his older

need to attend the palace banquet, right? I'll return to inform