Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Carissa laughed softly, her demeanor unruffled.

"I don't find myself embarrassed at all, but don't you feel any shame, Lady Jessica?

"You're the daughter of a princess, and you were given a royal education. Yet, you speak such harsh words. You couldn't even recognize my senior's painting, and tore it apart in your ignorance. Such rashness is what will truly invite ridicule.

"As for telling me to leave, are you issuing an eviction order? How amusing. Grand Princess Eleanor invited me here with a formal invitation, and I brought a birthday gift. Now, you want to chase me away? Is this how your family treats its guests? Or was there another intention behind that invitation-to humiliate me in front of these ladies?

"Did you think that after my separation from Barrett, I would be too ashamed to show my face, and that I would quietly endure your insults?"

She paused, her gaze sweeping across the room.

"If you expected me to be a laughingstock by inviting me here, you'll be disappointed. I haven't done anything wrong. It is not I who should be ashamed. My family is upright and honorable. No matter where I go, I can speak loudly and proudly.

"But you, Lady Jessica, lack respect for your elders. You disregarded the concubines of the late emperor. You said Helen would become a laughingstock, showing neither respect nor devotion. I wonder how your parents raised you?"

Her eyes turned to Eleanor, her voice sharp.

a small sculpture commemorating chastity after my father and brothers sacrificed their lives for the country-a clear curse-could

out to her maids, Lulu and

lingering resentment might cling to us? Look-the air above Harmony Palace, Grand Princess Eleanor's residence, is thick with the spirits of people who died

contain her fury,

replied, "You should find a high priest to perform some exorcisms for them, or the

it just about seeing who became the topic of conversation among the high society ladies in the

knew it well. She wouldn't dare actually call in the authorities

couldn't be killed cruelly. Carissa hadn't

her piece, Carissa walked away, leaving Eleanor

back or

There

never truly seen the real Carissa. The daughter-in-law who once served her so dutifully seemed like

pride and capability ever been content to serve a

understand it, but she also seemed to

understanding made her feel even