Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1405

Adrian had been in the capital for some time now.

In the past, he had been consumed with his studies on sacred firearms, leaving little room for anything else. But now, with some free time, he used the excuse of being unable to let go of the business in the city to extend his stay.

The truth was, he was concerned for Carissa.

His interest in sacred firearms had begun with his trip to Nerathia to study their methods. He had done it for the Southern Frontier, then Hector, and ultimately, for Rafael and Carissa.

As a mentor, Adrian knew that they each had their own paths to walk. He couldn't prevent them from forging their own futures, but he could help them however he could and act as their support.

Adrian often claimed he wasn't cut out to be a teacher. But the truth was, his apprentices were exceptional. Each one of them was a person of great character.

None of them needed his constant concern-except for Carissa.

She had always been wild and carefree. But even so, she had mastered the martial arts to a remarkable degree, her natural talent shining through.

Seeing the bright, carefree smile on her face each day always brought a deep sense of happiness to Adrian.

As time passed, Carissa had been forced to grow up quickly. Her heart was always on edge, and she never relaxed. The joyful, genuine smile she once wore so often had disappeared. Adrian felt a profound ache seeing her carry such a burden.

But those wounds of hers-only time could heal them, and there was little anyone else could do.

but there was always

drinking. He slept until late afternoon before finally heading to the

family had been at the height of their power. But now, only Adrian remained. He had no

a powerful army. He had been accused of wielding too much power, which threatened the throne. There were probably some grudges and unresolved matters from

of the past, the Russell family had

Adrian with the utmost respect-not only because of Blake's contributions, but also because Adrian had improved the six-barreled matchlock and the red cannons that had been brought in but not yet used. These

and subject, all born from a lack of trust. Had anyone else said such words, Salvador might not have taken them

So, Salvador listened.

At least, for now.

the palace, the shadows on his face remained, and he wasn't optimistic.

Frontier was nearly decided. When Salvador thought back to Rafael's unapproved departure from the

emblem, the command of the Southern Frontier army

years, things might be peaceful enough. But after that, it was

of returning

Adrian went to

to the Capital Guard headquarters.

the previous night, she

had woken up as usual, unbothered, and was already back to business

each other in an unusual moment of

and Rafael returns, you two should resign and come back to

still hoarse, but she