Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Both Violet and Carissa were seething with anger.

How could Samuel be so heartless? He used Nora's money to marry the woman he adored. Yet, that woman had the audacity to slap Nora for a single remark.

Carissa's voice was sharp with rage as she asked, "Has he ever hit you?"

Leona shook her head. "No, he hasn't."

Carissa continued, "Even if he hasn't hit you now, who's to say what will happen in the future? That courtesan was already so bold in front of me today. It's likely she will provoke you further. Though she's a courtesan from a prestigious brothel, she has plenty of tricks up her sleeve."

She placed a comforting hand on Leona's shoulder. "How many people did you bring with you? Do you have enough to protect yourself?"

Leona replied, "I brought four maids and one old servant."

Carissa considered her options. She would consult with Travis about sending a letter to his guild to see if his senior guild members could come as guards. Carissa was unsure if Travis' master would agree, as she had previously disapproved of female apprentices going out to seek a livelihood.

It would only be for a few months, just until the baby was born and until the Lunar Blessing Ceremony, which was on the 100th day of the baby's birth. Carissa hoped the Lunar Guild's leader would consent. She decided not to mention this to Leona yet. Once arrangements were confirmed, she would send the reinforcements directly.

As they left Gracehold Estate and settled into the carriage, Rowan spoke up.

dire. Her emotional distress is severe, and has likely caused her to cry daily. If this continues, no amount of miscarriage prevention medicine will be effective. It's uncertain if the baby can be saved, and there's a real risk that she might

three months is particularly harmful to the baby's health. Her lungs and heart channels are severely congested. She

to say "relax",

would simply cry. Despite her status as a duchess, her temperament was shaped by the weakness of her parents,

situation was made worse

love for Samuel. Before marrying into the

been full of hope

future. Yet,

Samuel had taken a new concubine and

else, leaving

neglected and heartbroken.

to beat that old harpy. Samuel should

calmly, "If you strike someone he cares about, do you think he

"Good. If he comes, we'll

Rowan hesitated before saying,

if you do

might become even more resentful toward her, and if he turns cold and harsh, it will