Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

As the carriage rolled along, the strong wind and intense sun made the heat almost unbearable. Despite the sweltering conditions, the maid showed no sign of discomfort. She seemed quite resilient. Typically, a maid attending closely to her mistress would be delicate and avoid heavy labor.

However, this one was different.

Wasn't this little act of hers a bit disrespectful?

Thomas sighed and chose not to dwell on it further. They were accustomed to living on the edge, and such tricks were beneath their notice.

-

Inside the carriage, Carmen had removed her veil, revealing a face strikingly similar to Celeste's-beautiful yet distinctly cool.

With the maid outside, she spoke softly, "Lady Carissa, please save my mother."

Carissa responded gently, "But clearly, that wasn't your only reason for stopping us."

"You're right." Carmen shook her head, a hint of shame on her otherwise composed face. "My mother ordered me to ruin your relationship with the Hell Monarch."

She half-knelt and bowed, her eyes filling with tears. "Please have mercy, Lady Carissa."

I help you?" Carissa

as much

lowered her voice and said, "I can offer you a trade. What

to sit beside her. Carmen froze

peered inside. Then, she asked, "My lady, are you feeling

"I'm much

briefly, and then let the

with Violet, trying to

discuss it further and find an opportunity. That evening, they stayed at an inn. After dinner, Carissa deliberately instructed

Dylan nodded and left.

glance before asking, "Do you not

replied, "For your mistress' sake, it wouldn't be appropriate. Our group is mostly men, and traveling together might harm her reputation

you. There's safety in numbers." "You have your own guard, don't you?" Carissa countered. "Moreover, we'll be traveling not too far apart

maid couldn't refute this point. However, she seemed increasingly distressed

us would ease my mind. Besides, the cost of horses is quite high, and my funds are running low.

Which family do you come from? If we know them, we might be able to lend you the money for the horses. You can repay us when we reach the capital." Before Carmen could respond, the maid