Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

But Jaina had spent her childhood navigating the world alongside Lucas, and she had learned that human nature was far more complex. She had no familial ties with Eleanor, yet the latter had saved her and was supposedly looking for a husband for her. It all felt improbable.

Jaina had been in the capital for a while, and Eleanor never mentioned anything about a marriage proposal. Jaina was 25 years old now, and if Eleanor genuinely intended to arrange a match for her, Eleanor would have brought it up by now.

In truth, Jaina wasn't entirely sure how old she was. Lucas had said she was around seven or eight when he rescued her, so by that estimation, she must be in her mid-twenties now.

Furthermore, Eleanor held many banquets held at her palace. If she had any desire to present Jaina, she would have done so by now.

Yet every time, Jaina found herself locked away in the courtyard. She couldn't even step outside her room. The old maid explained that she hadn't learned the proper etiquette yet, and that going out might offend their esteemed guests.

"Do you really think there's more to the story of how Grand Princess Eleanor saved me?" Jaina asked, her breath coming in labored gasps.

"I'm not sure, which is why we need to investigate. Can you tell me what happened at that time? And what about the dissolution of your performance troupe?"

Jaina nodded, and recounted everything that had transpired in Stonebridge County.

her detailed questions, knowing she would have to report back to Rafael and Jacob. She probed until she had every detail. Jaina explained

throat felt parched. After a moment of silence, she nervously asked, "When

not convenient for you to go out. Besides, the Farrell family members can't keep inviting you out. I'll go back and discuss this with Jacob. He's more eager than anyone to meet you. Your grandfather and mother are also in the capital, and

fingers. She had never imagined she

thought about it

why they had abandoned her.

over the years,"

the time, but I still remember the person who tossed me out saying something

handkerchief, but she didn't take it. Instead, she pulled out her

had been their own child

wouldn't have delayed anything. Why throw me away while I was still alive?

endured. She must have been terrified after being abducted, and then fallen gravely ill during the journey. Human traffickers wouldn't help her. They feared exposure and didn't want to spend money on her. If someone fell

of sickness that she mistakenly