Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

It was Rafael's day off, and he felt as though Yuvan had ruined half of it. Helen shared his sentiments, expressing her disdain for Yuvan's family and how they expected her to play host.

"I can't stand a heartless man like him," she fumed. "Though he and the late king were brothers, he's not an ounce like him. He tortured his legitimate wife to death-he truly is a despicable man!"

Gillian interjected gently, "They came all this way, and you're the only one with enough seniority to handle them properly. We can't have Prince Rafael or Lady Carissa dealing with them. After all, they're younger than Prince Yuvan. It wouldn't make sense for an elder to visit the younger generation. Isn't it more fitting for you to step in? By doing so, you've helped Prince Rafael and Lady Carissa."

-

"I know, but I'm just so angry. I want to slap Yuvan twice," Helen said, her expression darkening. "There are plenty of heartless men out there, but I've rarely encountered one who is both cruel and callous."

Gillian blinked. It wasn't exactly like Helen had met many men, though.

Meanwhile, Rafael returned to Orchid Hall with Carissa. "Let's change clothes and go out for a bit. We'll have dinner outside tonight."

"Where to?" Carissa asked.

Rafael replied, "I originally planned to take you out today, but they wasted half the day. Now we're left with only a few hours, and we can't go too far. Let's head to Richspire Peak to see the maple leaves. I've heard this year's are particularly vibrant." Given their busy schedules, they hardly had time to nurture their relationship. Today was a rare chance to enjoy each other's company without any other obligations.

was serene and cool, away from the crowds. A half-day excursion in the autumn leaves would surely be better than staying in

considered it. "But Vivi's busy talking to Carmen and practicing her

two of us. We're not taking any maids or guards, not even

"I was hoping we could pick Ryan up together since he's going to be staying at the academy next month. Plus, Vivi

and Pearl

to assist with their

first, they were

rare for Rafael to take some time off to enjoy an outing with Carissa But as the conversation unfolded, their spirits

with her to strengthen their relationship and create some

had no sense of romance

swordplay, let's not disturb them. Come on, let's change into riding clothes. We need to set

sense of peace that would

hoped Violet didn't get

as they stepped out, still adjusting to their outfits, Luke entered with news.

momentarily taken aback. "Did they say what

I'm not sure if they're dealing with some sort of problem." Rafael frowned. "A problem? With their family? Why would they have trouble solving