Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Barrett said, "Even if they were Westhaven people, they were still civilians. We had an agreement not to harm civilians. It was a promise from the rulers to the people, and it benefited the citizens of both kingdoms. Did you never consider that the people of Victory Pass might also be at risk of slaughter?"

Aurora snorted, her eyes filled with disdain. "As a former military general, you should know better, Barrett. You're not cut out for the battlefield. You're too soft and lack the resolve needed. If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have achieved anything. Even in front of General Sullivan, you needed me to strongly advocate for sending troops to burn the supply depot in Fawnrun City. Without me, you wouldn't have even achieved that.

"You gained merit because I earned it first. I signed the treaty, and you, as the commanding general of the reinforcements, reaped the benefits of my accomplishments. Now, you have the audacity to blame me for achieving success? Don't you find yourself despicable and shameful?"

Her tone, filled with mockery and contempt, seemed to trample Barrett's pride into the dirt.

Barrett was stunned. He was fully aware that what she was saying was wrong, but he didn't know how to respond.

"Nothing to say now?" Aurora said, with a smile that suggested she felt vindicated. "Barrett, look at what I gave up for you. And what did you give up for me? I was at my peak when I chose to marry you as your second wife. I remained steadfast during your fall from grace, and yet you married Viola after your divorce from Carissa.

"Do you think you've wronged Carissa? The person you've truly wronged is me!"

Her voice was soft but laden with profound bitterness, tears slipping down her cheeks.

and I planned everything for our future. What did Carissa ever do for you? When you wanted to marry me as a rightful wife, she turned her back on you. She requested a divorce and

Carissa ever done for you? Managed your household? Sent your family small gifts and seasonal clothing? Attended to your mother? But weren't those things expected of her? They were her responsibilities, not her

compromise but not for her? She held you accountable for breaking your promise, sought a divorce, and made everyone scorn you, tarnishing the reputation of your family. You should be angry with her, but why

bitterness. Everything seemed

and remained in your family, waiting for another opportunity to prove myself. I continued

stifled and heavy. After a long while, she choked out, "Do you know how hard every day is for me? If another

left Barrett feeling both confused and upset. She was right.

and embraced her. "I'm sorry. It's my

a sharp sound pierced

through the

immediately pulled Aurora bonet

and