Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1201

As Carissa rode back to Hell Monarch Estate, the murmurs of the townsfolk reached her ears. Small groups gathered on street corners and market stalls, their conversations buzzing with the shocking events at Gracewood Women's Academy. The academy and Skye Embroidery had already drawn public attention-some admiring, some critical. But now, with a scandal of this magnitude, the entire city seemed to be in an uproar.

At the heart of it all was Rosalind, the royal chancellor's granddaughter. The jewel of high society, a young woman of golden pedigree-dishonored by a brutish laborer.

Who would marry her now?

"She was foolish," someone whispered. "She could have lived out her days as a sheltered noblewoman, but she chose to play teacher. Well, look where that got her! Her reputation is ruined forever."

Carissa deliberately slowed her horse, listening intently as she passed by, hoping-desperately for someone to acknowledge Rosalind's bravery, to speak of how she had shielded her students. But no such words came. Not a single voice praised her courage or sacrifice. Carissa's heart sank under the weight of it all.

She had faced her share of trials since becoming the commander of the Mystic Army, including several assassination attempts. Not every mission had gone perfectly, and even Skye Embroidery had its own challenges. Yet, none of it had discouraged her. She believed that many things could be accomplished slowly, as long as she did her best.

However, this was different.

This time, her spirit felt crushed.

disaster shouldn't have

cautious. Why hadn't she been more alert? Was it because Rafael had left the capital, and the pain of

if she had foreseen them, she hadn't taken

felt an overwhelming

in. He had gone to the Royal Citadel to inquire after hearing about

in such a dejected state. She was slumped in the chair, her legs crossed and her back

said, "Your Grace, what matters now is finding the mastermind

"Jacob, I'm fine. Don't worry about

feet firmly on the ground,

think this through. Who could be

tactics used are vile-dirty to the core.

agree," Carissa

a motive. While the workshop may seem accepted by most t there are plenty who secretly dislike it and see it as a challenge to traditional values. But

She shook her head.

Academy was founded under the queen

there. Yes, Ms. Quinton was expelled, but could it really be them? Their