Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Meredith was far from being put off by Carissa and Violet's unexpected visit. In fact, she welcomed them with great warmth and enthusiasm.

"I should have sent a formal notice of our visit, but it was an urgent matter. I hope you will forgive our impromptu arrival," Carissa apologized.

Meredith smiled. "Why make such formalities between us? It's a pleasure to have you here. Just so happens that today, Henrietta is also my guest. She overindulged and upset her stomach. She's currently in the restroom, but you'll see her shortly."

"What are you talking about? Meredith, don't speak nonsense."

At this moment, Henrietta entered with her attendants. She was holding her stomach and clearly still felt unwell, but her retort to Meredith was forceful.

Meredith laughed. "Oh, Henrietta, you want to keep up appearances just because Carissa is here. Even if you refuse to admit it, you're still a glutton, and Kiera's just following your lead."

Carissa, Violet, and Rowan greeted her.

"Greetings, Princess Henrietta."

Henrietta responded with a respectful nod. "Please, sit down. Why stand? Carissa, why do you look so pale today? Has someone bullied you?"

Carissa took a seat and explained the situation regarding their visit to Gracehold Estate, detailing everything straightforwardly, including Violet's confrontation with the courtesan. Henrietta cast an approving glance at Violet. "Well done!"

that? If she disregards even a princess consort, it's clear how poor Leona must have been treated in the household! Now, even pregnant, Leona receives no affection from her husband.

understood the purpose of Carissa's

her composure. As her father-in-law was the Oversight Minister, it required her to be measured in

I can't

princess, she lived a life of luxury, but she had also been exposed to the hardships faced

are regulations governing it. However the world is ruled by

Laws exist

but they

and men often do

adhere to them.

stipulate that a man can only take concubines if his primary wife is over forty and has not borne children. Yet, no official or

practice, the law

the wealthy merchants with multiple concubines hidden away in their mansions, no one bothered to

officials, receiving a woman or two from a superior

to action, as few in the court had

forbidden from visiting entertainment parlors-a rule the late king had stressed again and