Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1216

Little did Carissa know, Jeanette would keep talking to her throughout the performance. Sometimes, she even giggled and playfully nudged Carissa, as if they were very close and familiar with each other.

Their interaction caught the attention of the other concubines nearby. A few of them even leaned in, casting curious glances several times.

Though people would call it interacting, in reality, Carissa only occasionally agreed or nodded, giving a smile to be polite.

However, others didn't see it that way. After the performance, both Meredith and Kiera pulled Carissa aside with puzzled expressions. "You and Jeanette know each other?"

Carissa shook her head. "We've never met before today."

"Then why does it seem like you two are so familiar with each other?" Kiera's confusion deepened.

Meredith noticed something was off and frowned. "Stay away from her in the future. Her intentions aren't sincere."

Carissa had already gathered that much. But at the time, everyone was watching the performance. Leaving abruptly would have been rude and disruptive to Salvador's and Victoria's enjoyment. Still, Carissa didn't think Jeanette was foolish-though she certainly wasn't all that clever either.

As the performance had ended, Carissa felt a sense of relief. However, when she caught the cold glances from Sylvia, Penelope, and the other concubines, she knew the mood had shifted. They hadn't said anything, but their eyes spoke volumes-sharp, calculating, and no longer friendly.

Carissa rarely involved herself in the intrigues of the harem, she had spent enough time observing the women to understand their temperaments. They could tolerate a new favorite, but if someone reached too far-if they became too ambitious-that was something they

Carissa the most. By trying to get close to

banquet began, Carissa saw

Royal Garden, not wanting to see

while she was the Hell Monarch's princess consort and the commander of the Mystic Army. Her position meant that she was seated directly across from him, and there was no

tutor, and Trevor had also once taught Sigmund. Later, he became Salvador's teacher. Both of them had been invited to the palace banquet, which was only natural given their esteemed

long banquet table was

dishes. Salvador raised his cup in a toast, thanking the heavens and his teachers. Carissa noticed that Gerald had a serious expression

image alone made her

make matters worse, Gerald kept glancing at her because of the matter with the women's academy, and all

felt like an eternity to

Carissa exchanged pleasantries with Victoria and quickly made her way out of the palace. This year, without Rafael in the capital, she didn't see the need to linger. She wanted to return to the estate with Helen as

but Gerald spoke

smile and replied, "Yes, Lord Quinton. Are

a lecturing quality. "I have

a respectful distance, her head lowered as protocol dictated. "Please

seriously, "Teaching