Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Ultimately, Viola didn't leave the banquet before this.

The scrutinizing gazes that fell upon her face made her feel utterly humiliated. Yet, she couldn't bring herself to look away, unwilling to miss even a moment of Carissa's potential embarrassment. Such a grand banquet was bound to have some slip-ups.

The next part of the event was the toasting ceremony. Although the male and female guests were seated separately, the screens dividing them were only a slight barrier.

During the toasts, it was customary for the guests to bow their heads in acknowledgment. As the male guests moved to toast, they said, "Let's go, we'll toast to Lady Helen."

The women paused, putting down their utensils and lifting their fans to cover their faces.

Rafael led a group consisting of Harvey, Jeremiah, and Trevor, and the men approached Helen. They didn't glance at the female guests but walked straight to Helen, stopping a short distance before her and raising their glasses.

"Lady Helen, we wish you a long and healthy life, filled with joy and peace. May you live as long as the mountains."

Originally, Rafael was supposed to drink this toast on behalf of his mother, but Helen, delighted, took the glass herself and said cheerfully, "Good. May everyone live as long as the mountains. Let us enjoy many more years and the blessings of our descendants."

Jeremiah and Trevor, both of advanced age, found this wish suitable for themselves as well. Only Harvey stood awkwardly by.

Jeremiah and Trevor drank as a gesture of respect, and Helen promptly drank from her glass. Harvey quickly finished his drink, and excused himself before departing with them.

"I will now toast to the earls and marquises in attendance on

the marquis was the Marquis of Ironridge, Jessica's husband. He had not once glanced

wasn't interested in looking

a smile, draining his glass and

you flatter me," Carissa replied

earls also finished their drinks and cast admiring glances

it ironic. The toast was meant for Helen, and if anyone should be drinking in her place, it should

expected Rafael to be furious, but when she glanced at him, she found him gazing at Carissa with an expression

utterly dumbfounded. She stood frozen in

it had been a long time. Thomas used to look at her like that, but Barrett never had. His eyes were always calm and distant. Memories of

a glass of wine, trying to suppress the

memories now that

beside her. She saw Rafael within her reach, and knew this was her only chance. Jessica

take her to meet the

after her

Jessica hadn't offered

word of comfort.

to marry Rafael-she was