Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1242

The trio listened as the common folk continued to praise Carissa. They spoke of her efforts in establishing Gracewood Women's Academy and Skye Embroidery, and how she had now even cleaned up such a filthy place. She was truly a remarkable woman.

Of course, where there was praise, there was also criticism. Some whispered that a woman's place was in the home, managing the household as well as bearing children and raising them.

"Lady Carissa has been married for so long, yet she hasn't even had a child. She's neglected her proper duties as a wife, and worse, she's doing a man's work."

Violet, having grown used to such talk, merely rolled her eyes. But Cynthia and Bun, ever protective of their friend, were quick to react. They were about to step forward to argue when Violet caught them by the

arm.

With a smile, she said, "Let them talk. Don't waste your breath. It's nothing to lose sleep over. If we engage, we'll only cause Cari more trouble. Besides, there are plenty of people who will defend her. She has quite a following."

And sure enough, voices soon rose in defense of Carissa.

Feeling reassured, Cynthia murmured, "Cari is only growing more remarkable."

continued to brew at the Capital Guard headquarters. Gerald hadn't eaten or drunk anything all day. By nightfall, a high fever struck him. Despite the heat of two charcoal stoves and the weight

a loss. He was too afraid to call in any outside physicians, so he could only

on top of his original punishment. After leaving the palace, he was relentlessly focused on how to fix the situation, and now, another problem

Whether that cloth was burned through or set alight, it would be a disaster for the

Malcolm felt torn toward Carissa-grateful yet resentful. Grateful that she continued to shield the Quinton family from disgrace, but resentful that she hadn't warned him sooner. But he couldn't voice

had already said

after just having been there. Maybe this was just bound to

strong, too quickly.

rambled incoherently. Carissa wouldn't allow anyone near him except for Malcolm and the household physician.

for something he could never have, no matter how hard he tried. They fed him medicine, but by midnight, his fever still showed

the strain of emotional turmoil-an anxious heart, combined with two days without food or drink, had finally overwhelmed him. Simply put, it was his mind that had faltered first.

the household physician shook his head in dismay. Carissa called for Malcolm to step outside, then suggested, "I think we should call for Sebastian, or perhaps take Lord Gerald

pressed over his face, the weight of exhaustion heavy on him. He hadn't slept

was