Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Rafael inquired about Leona, "How is she now? Is she feeling better? Samuel's dismissal should have made him tone down his behavior, right?"

Carissa shook her head. "With all his talk of true love, how could he possibly change? Not only has he not toned down, he doesn't even visit Leona's quarters anymore."

"True love?" Rafael frowned. "Isn't that term completely tarnished? What about his other concubine? The merchant's daughter, the one whose dowry was used to redeem the courtesan."

"Since Nora entered the estate, she's barely even seen him." Carissa stopped her embroidery, her face showing irritation. "Nora is only seventeen this year. Given her family background and the difference in status with the Earl of Gracehold's family, it's nearly impossible for her to escape that cage. Isn't she just another victim of her family's schemes? Did she really want to marry Samuel as a concubine?" "Outside, that's indeed how they speak of her," Lily said as she personally brought in some soup.

Carissa replied, "I know. They say Nora is seeking to elevate her family status by becoming a concubine of an earl's household, and that she married him willingly. But whether she was truly willing or not, who cares? Who pays attention to what a woman thinks or desires? Who cares if she might just want to find a stable, ordinary husband and live a simple life?"

Rafael was touched by her words. "You have had almost no interaction with Nora, yet you speak on her behalf. You truly empathize with women, unlike some who speak of righteousness but actually devalue women the most."

Carissa was taken aback, suddenly reminded of Aurora.

Aurora had previously boasted in front of Carissa that she was a model for women everywhere, claiming she wanted to fight for women's rights. Yet deep down, Aurora held women in contempt.

report, "Lady Carissa, Lady

to the sitting room," Carissa said,

Alana had come this evening, something must

occasionally visited to discuss matters, but they generally chose daytime rather than evening or

much interaction with Alana during his time at Meadow Ridge, they had become acquainted after she

no need for any formalities between them. Since they were both from Meadow Ridge, he said, "I'll accompany you. If she's coming this late, it must be important." Alana was seated in the sitting room, and the servants had brought her coffee. She ignored its scalding temperature and drank

didn't rise but called out, "Lady

couple greeted with

I'll be brief," Alana said calmly. She always approached matters with such composure-never in a rush, yet the

Carissa asked as she and Rafael took their

nodded seriously. "Yes.

before, Leah and

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