Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1287

Rafael leaned back against the soft cushions, feeling as though every ounce of strength had been drained from his body.

Ever since returning from the Southern Frontier and relinquishing his command, Salvador continued to regard him with suspicion. Rafael could choose not to care. If some things were restricted, he would find other ways to achieve his goals.

He held back to avoid further widening the gap between him and his brother. It wasn't until the

negotiations with Westhaven that he became more proactive. But even after that, he knew when to step back again.

Rafael only hoped that if war did come, Salvador might doubt him less.

"He knows that Sandoria's return this time is likely tied to traitors within the Southern Frontier who've helped them prepare for this attack. Yet, he still believes that I am more of a threat to him than Sandoria's armies at our doorstep," said Rafael, laughing bitterly as he drained the last of his wine.

Carissa's gaze darkened. "This isn't the first time he's done this."

Rafael pulled her into his embrace, his fingers gently combing through her hair as he remembered the last time such a thing had happened. How suffocating that situation had felt.

As he sat here alone tonight, drinking to dull the ache, he found himself repeatedly mulling over the same question would he be condemned to live in this suffocating situation forever?

"I won't let the same tragedy repeat itself," Rafael said, pulling away from Carissa slightly and fixing her with a cold, determined stare. "I should learn from you."

the palace with critical intelligence, only to be rejected by Salvador. Rather than waiting idly or stepping aside, she had single-handedly gone to the Southern Frontier to find Rafael. At that moment, she had placed her life in

consequences.

were in sync, and Carissa understood his meaning

If His Majesty remains silent, I will stay here in the capital. But if he moves against you, I'll scatter the people in Hell Monarch Estate and help

her as she spoke, a plan forming

now that she had voiced her support, she would be his

and ask Sebastian if there's any medicine that might cause a change in pulse after consumption. If so, I'll take it, and then you can immediately

it," Carissa said, nodding

rough fingers brushing over her lips.

eyes shimmered with unshed

most likely still haunted

at the Southern Frontier. If Rafael wanted to lead them there, it

could pretend to be sick and buy some time. Even

Southern Frontier, it would have to wait until he

that awaited him was death, Carissa would face it

her way to Arcane Sanctum herself. As soon as Sebastian heard her

too dangerous. It's not worth it," he commented as he led her into the

conviction, her eyes shining. "For the

consequences are too severe. Even if Prince Rafael returns victorious and isn't punished, His Majesty will find a way