Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 167

Rafael had secluded himself, refusing visitors for several days. During this time, many would-be guests had come knocking. However, he was unwilling to see any of them. When he left the palace, he put aside his usual cheerful demeanor with his elder brother.

Rafael understood the meaning behind the royal edict

The order was clear: Carissa must marry within three months, or she would have to enter the palace as a concubine. Salvador was forcing him to make a choice.

The jests and scoldings exchanged in the palace's study weren't just idle chatter; each word carried hidden intentions.

Whether Carissa entered the palace was of no real concern to Salvador. It was a matter of showcasing his power-whether to allow her to remain free or to summon her to the palace was just a matter of issuing an edict.

Years earlier, Salvador had known of Rafael's feelings for Carissa. Before Rafael headed to the Southern Frontier battlefield, he had approached Melanie, asking her to delay Carissa's marriage. He promised to present the victory in the Southern Frontier as a dowry.

Salvador was aware of this promise. Now that the conflict in the Southern Frontier was over, Salvador expected him to marry Carissa.

The facade of brotherly affection and respect was clear, at least on the surface. However, a crucial remark made in the palace's study held a deeper meaning.

marriage to any noble family could pose a threat

wished to marry Carissa,

the Hell Monarch Army, and

been wary of him. When the situation in the Southern Frontier became dire, Salvador hesitated to send him and the Hell Monarch Army to support the region. Salvador hoped Hector would be able to recapture the Southern Frontier as he

a long time. The kingdom was left in a state of emptiness-food, weapons, and warm clothing

and his sons had sacrificed their lives that Salvador agreed to deploy Rafael and the Hell Monarch

be

Before their father passed away, he had been granted the

of soldiers from the

still mobilize them,

indeed an exceptional heir apparent-he was well-versed in both civil

Salvador's outward attitude remained unchanged and he showed Rafael continued affection/the underlying wariness had dent for the past

steward Luke said, entering the study with a

slightly. "Set it down Where's

York and Deputy Ziegler have gone to the military camp. The king is rewarding the troops, and they are assisting the

had the pot and cups set down and dismissed the