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.

suggested that Carissa's marriage to any noble family

aimed directly at Rafael. If he wished to marry Carissa, he would need to relinquish his

Hell Monarch Army, and cease to be

Salvador hesitated to send him and the Hell Monarch Army to support the region. Salvador

weapons, and warm clothing were all in short supply. Despite their best efforts, Hector and his forces. had

to deploy Rafael and

not be wary

had been granted

the Mystic Army was made up of soldiers from the Hell Monarch Army, and some

the king could still mobilize them, which was a concession he made

him well. The position of crown prince was decided early on, without any dissent. Salvador was indeed an exceptional heir apparent-he was well-versed in both civil and military matters, had been on the battlefield, and had

prince was vastly different from being the king. While Salvador's outward attitude remained unchanged and he showed Rafael continued affection/the underlying wariness had

tea and take a break, the steward Luke said, entering

it

the military camp. The king is rewarding the troops, and they are

pot and cups set down and dismissed