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.

suppose there's no surprise there. After all, a mother who would send a small sculpture commemorating chastity after my father and brothers sacrificed their lives for the country-a clear curse-could hardly raise a proper daughter. Don't bother trying to drive me away. People like you are beneath my

to her maids, Lulu

visiting again. Who knows what kind of lingering resentment might cling to us? Look-the air above Harmony Palace, Grand

could no longer contain her fury,

find a high priest to perform some exorcisms for them,

the topic of conversation among the high society ladies in the capital? Well,

was true or not, Eleanor knew it well. She wouldn't dare actually call in the authorities for

and those who had been treated as concubines couldn't be killed cruelly. Carissa hadn't known this until

walked away, leaving

no need to look back or stay. The

There

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

capability ever been content

she also seemed to understand

made her feel