Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Rafael continued to put food on her plate, but he avoided answering her question. Carissa suppressed her curiosity. After all, it wasn't a particularly important matter.

He smiled, and deflected by saying, "After Grand Princess Eleanor's birthday banquet today, I'm sure there will be many new topics among the noble families in the capital."

Carissa gave him a playful glare. "Yes, many noble ladies will have their hearts broken. When Lady Helen announced our engagement, many looked at me with disdain."

"There will be many who envy and resent me," Rafael said meaningfully.

At least Barrett would regret it. Even Salvador had been moved as well.

"Not really. Who would want a woman who has been divorced?" Carissa said.

Rafael tapped her forehead lightly with the end of his spoon. "You're about to become the Hell Monarch's princess consort. Are you still belittling yourself?"

"Such is the way of the world." She tapped him back playfully, then quickly moved away, smiling. "I'm not belittling myself. I know how outstanding I am."

deeply. Even if her happiness was partly a facade,

lingered in her eyes when she first arrived at the Southern Frontier had greatly

own pain. He was forced to marry someone he didn't

that woman was. If the woman knew she had missed out

ways. During their farewell, Carissa felt they had grown closer. It seemed that after their marriage, they would be able to respect each other as friends. The next day, officials from

also invited to Northwatch Estate, where they began the traditional courtship rituals,

which greatly pleased Theodore. He felt assured that Rafael was genuinely intent

Carissa enhanced the Sinclair family's reputation through her achievements, but she was also marrying into the royal family.

minister was also invited. After consulting the almanac, he declared,

Rafael decided to set

twenty-fourth of

Carissa as soon as possible, but felt that the wedding should be conducted with proper ceremony. He asked

asked, "I still need to visit Meadow Ridge personally to ask for your master's consent.