Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1048

A few days later, the rumors finally began to die down.

It was curious how fickle public opinion could be. After the storm of gossip, slander, and outrage, some began to look at Skye Embroidery in a new light.

It might be because some agreed with the articles written by those scholars, prompting other academics to interpret the situation more positively.

As one of the storytellers at the Ascension Coffeehouse had put it, Skye Embroidery was, at its core, a lifeline for women cast out of their homes. It wasn't some earth-shattering rebellion against morality or societal order. Could it truly be so difficult for anyone to show even a sliver of compassion?

However, this line of thinking was shared only by a portion of the populace. Most still withheld their approval, though the vehemence of their opposition had lessened. Cooler heads began to prevail, even if grudgingly.

It was around this time that Leona, the Duchess of Everpeace, made a shocking move.

She stepped into the halls of Skye Embroidery and declared to the world that she was severing all ties with Harvey. She no longer recognized Harvey as her dad and announced that Skye Embroidery would henceforth be her home. This decision had not been made on a whim.

When Skye Embroidery had stood empty, with no one willing to take up residence, Leona had already considered moving in. She had discussed the matter several times with Alana and Leah. They had advised against it, saying it would seem too deliberate. They worried it would bring more controversy to the workshop rather than help it.

with Leona and had a long and private conversation with her. Afterward, Carissa gave her blessing on the

from Harvey, severing their father-daughter relationship would ensure Leona

things remained outside her awareness, but her parents' actions or lack thereof had left her heart

their backs on her. When her grandfather faced tribulations, they still didn't care or even visit him

-

Samuel, Leona had come to understand that some relationships could not be forced. Love was like that, and so was family.

Serena, tearful and hysterical, sent back to

assisting Leona in settling in when the new steward from Ironridge Estate

had once been so

she had the chance to return as the Marchioness of Ironridge, everyone assumed she would leave triumphantly. Perhaps, she might even sneer at those she left behind before striding out

she was, sitting on the stone steps in the main courtyard. Her arms were wrapped around her knees, and she was staring blankly ahead. She

turned to her with confused eyes. "Going? Where

to Ironridge Estate to take your place as the Marquis of Ironridge's wife," Leona

stone. She tugged atit few times, but it wouldn't budge. In her struggle, the sharp edge of

hand, then back at the small

bleeding!" Leona