Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Upon hearing Carissa's obedient response, Adrian extended his hand and beckoned her over. "Come here."

Carissa obediently walked over, and Adrian reached out to flick the tip of her nose.

"Ouch!" Carissa exclaimed. "Sage Adrian, that hurt."

"Punishment!" Adrian said sternly. "This is a mild punishment for not speaking up when needed."

A flicker of pain crossed Carissa's eyes, but she quickly masked it. "Understood. It won't happen again." Adrian noticed her fleeting expression of distress, and sighed inwardly. The hardships that his youngest apprentice had endured were too painful. He couldn't start thinking about them, or it would be too taxing on his heart.

He took her hand, guiding her to sit beside him.

"Rafael's character and virtue far surpass Barrett's. I believe he won't let you down or treat you poorly. But remember, the world is ever-changing, and so are people. In the past, he might have cherished you more because he couldn't have you. Now that he's married you, there's no guarantee he won't grow tired and look elsewhere. Men are unreliable. Even if you like him, don't trust him entirely. Understand?" Carissa's fifth guild senior, Isaac Prince, nodded vigorously in agreement. "Yes, men are all untrustworthy. They're disgusting. We can't trust them completely, or you might end up with a scoundrel..." "Be quiet!" Kyle tapped Isaac on the forehead.

Kyle thought Adrian's words were enough to unsettle Carissa, and didn't think it was wise to scare her further. But since Adrian was present, he dared not contradict him. He was surprised to see Isaac echoing Adrian's sentiments.

Violet, who was listening nearby, couldn't help but laugh. "Five, you're a man yourself. How can you be so disgusted by men?"

his position in the Pathfinders Guild, his face turned

love to linger in brothels. You play the harp and flute, and you've seen courtesans

hint of nervousness. "Stop talking nonsense. If Sage Everett hears you,

"No risk, no

away with a

seeing you, I find that I don't even

Adrian cut in. "We'll be heading back to the Pathfinders Guild tomorrow. If you have anything to say to Carissa, say it quickly.

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Chapter 364

+25 BONUS

staying at Northwatch Estate for a few days before Carissa's

rather than speaking in unison. Ultimately, their words served to remind her that no matter what happened, she still had her

the older woman was moved to tears. This strong. independent woman

dressed in a little blue dress. She

When Carissa first began her martial arts training and struggled with basic movements, Winona