Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

In preparation for her marriage, Carissa had acquired numerous new outfits.

Along with the engagement gifts from Rafael, her collection included many pieces of luxurious brocade and cloud satin. Her trunk was filled with clothing for every season-spring, summer, autumn, and winter —all in varying colors and with exquisite embroidery. There was even a separate trunk for fox fur and heavy cloaks.

Looking at the engagement gifts and dowry items now, she felt she had more than enough clothing for a lifetime. The garments she wore today and those freshly arranged in her wardrobe were intended for the coming days. They were mostly vibrant in color but remained elegant rather than gaudy.

Carissa found that blue hues suited her exceptionally well.

The outfit she wore tonight was a gentle shade of blue. Not a dark blue, but rather light blue with a hint of lavender, which highlighted her snow-like skin and complemented her beauty mark.

The outer layer made of cloud satin was incredibly soft, and its glossy surface shimmered with every movement. Though the garment was somewhat thin, the heated floor was enough to keep her warm. Carissa felt remarkably at ease. After her earlier bout of crying, her nose had been stuffy, but it had cleared up once she took a bath.

Word from the front courtyard indicated that Rafael had drunk quite a bit and would likely return to the newlywed suite soon. It was still only about ten at night, earlier than midnight, which was when Lily had anticipated Rafel would return.

Tonight's guests were truly making an occasion of it—how often did one see a wedding feast lasting this long?

It was a mark of great respect.

not been originally intended for immediate consumption, but it was customary to have a full spread in the newlywed suite, symbolizing that the couple would always

the same as before, but the chef had prepared these dishes fresh, keeping them warm in pots until

everything in place, Dylan helped Rafael

Carissa suddenly remembered there was a ceremony they might have

right, the First

was a tradition where the couple's friends and family gathered once more to extend their congratulations. The event was about well-wishing

married Barrett. Despite his imminent departure for the battlefield, they had carried out the tradition, and people

Carissa had still had her old temper back then, she would have

"Lily, aren't we supposed to do the First

it," Lily replied

relief. "That's wonderful. That tradition

was excessive. Those people General Warren's

to the door of the newlywed suite but didn't

assist her new husband, as Orchid Hall had not yet arranged for servants to be present. They were waiting for Carissa to choose the servants after her arrival. For now, only Carissa's few attendants

staff from Elegance Atelier had already been sent