Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Helen wiped away her tears as she listened to the servants report on the lively scene outside. She could only lament that she wasn't an ordinary commoner who was free to join in the festivities. The stories told by the storytellers over the past few days, which had been relayed to her by the servants, had moved her deeply. Yet, the tears she shed now weren't for the joyful festivities outside.

No, they were because she heard that Carissa had locked herself in her room since returning and hadn't come out for a long time. Helen didn't have to guess why Carissa was upset. This grand reunion didn't include her, for her dad and brothers hadn't fallen in this same battle.

"Come here," Helen said, beckoning to her daughter-in-law, who had just bowed to greet her. "Come sit by my side."

Carissa straightened up and walked over. But before she could properly sit down, Helen reached out and pulled the younger woman into her arms.

As Helen was seated, that tug resulted in Carissa finding herself kneeling, her face buried in her mother-in-law's embrace. Helen's arms wrapped tightly around her, and above her head, Carissa heard the older woman's voice, choked with emotion. "You can always think of me as your mom, your closest family. I will always protect you."

Carissa had initially felt a burst of resistance, trying to pull her face away from Helen's chest to catch her breath. But after hearing those words, her heart softened instantly. Each word struck her like a blow to her core, leaving her unable to resist. Her heart felt full, her nose tingled, and her eyes burned.

She had never expected her mother-in-law, who had always relied on the queen dowager for protection, to say something so maternal to her. Remembering a time when Helen had not been particularly fond of her, Carissa felt like crying at her words now. But in all honesty, her forty-something-year-old mother-in-law had such a firm embrace that Carissa was nearly suffocating.

Rafael watched the scene unfold and immediately regretted not being the one to give his wife a hug first. Now, he felt like his mom had stolen this heartfelt moment from him, leaving him frustrated and envious.

wiped away her own tears, feeling a deep sense of relief and joy. This was good. Helen had finally learned how to

released Carissa and gestured for everyone to sit

refreshments!" she instructed

on the other hand, seemed a bit awkward and stiff. Eager to change the subject, she quickly brought up more pressing matters. "Mother, did you

fallen ill. As for what my sister discussed with His Majesty, I wasn't privy

has been too much for her. The royal physicians have said her condition is not looking good. Yuvan has already submitted a report, requesting the king's permission to return to the capital with his

the king granted

A couple of days ago when I went to the palace, my sister said

meant to come would

palace to report in. I'll be back later to

with Logan,"

Let them run around as they please There's no

glanced at Carissa once

to Helen. "Has Kiera's