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.

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

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

"It'll just be the two of

I see. Then, when will we be back?" Carissa asked, her brow furrowing slightly. "I was hoping we could pick Ryan up together since he's going to be staying at the academy next month. Plus, Vivi might be upset if we went out

and Pearl

assist

first, they

off to enjoy an outing with Carissa But as the conversation unfolded, their

with her to strengthen their relationship

truly had no sense of romance

and Carmen practicing swordplay, let's not disturb them. Come on, let's change into riding clothes. We need to set off quickly so we can return in time to

had mentioned that watching the sun dip down from Richspire Peak's halfway point was a sight to behold. The summit seemed to glow with a golden light, inspiring a sense of peace that would wash away all worries. "Alright," Carissa conceded, but she felt a twinge of guilt. She usually went everywhere with Violet, and leaving her

Violet didn't get

their outfits, Luke entered with news. "Your Highness,

Rafael paused, momentarily taken aback. "Did

troubled. 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