Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1418

Of course, Carissa couldn't share her thoughts with Derek, so she simply thanked him and left. After that, Salvador continued the same routine of summoning her for idle conversation after court meetings. Sometimes, these sessions lasted an hour, and other times, they lasted two hours. Gradually, Carissa learned to take it in stride.

As his subject, if Salvador wanted her to act like a competent friend, she could oblige. Still, she couldn't help but think about how these midday breaks, a time the king should have spent resting, were now wasted on trivial chatter.

During this period, Grace visited a few times to deliver soup. Sylvia also came by, as did Penelope and even Jeanette.

Since the royal study was off-limits to the concubines, these women couldn't enter. Instead, they had to hand the soups to Derek, who would deliver them inside. However, if they brought along one of the princes or princesses, they were allowed to step into the study for a brief visit.

Perhaps because the concubines knew Carissa was often present, they always brought along a portion of soup for her as well. She would sometimes sip her share and wonder: If someone ever plotted to poison the king and the toxin was hidden in one of these soups, would she have to die alongside him? Today, Grace came, accompanied by Caden. Salvador allowed the mother and son into the study. Carissa had met Grace a few times while in the royal study. Her impression of the woman had always been favorable. Grace carried herself with quiet elegance, and Caden-young as he was-was well- mannered, a testament to his mom's capable upbringing.

Salvador clearly had a soft spot for the boy. Whenever Caden visited, the king's face would light up with genuine warmth.

Grace smiled as she directed the palace attendants to bring in the soup. Two bowls were placed on the table, one specifically for Carissa.

"I heard you coughing a bit the other day, Your Grace. So, I asked the cooks to prepare a bowl of honey and herb-infused broth this morning. It's good for soothing the lungs and easing coughs," Grace said warmly.

Carissa offered her thanks, "You've gone to so much trouble, Your Grace."

so

"Alright."

the palace

bothering her these

a sip of his own bowl, then

smiled and complained, "Why

and Carissa froze for

was already drinking hers, straight from the small

it contained

she would just drink

seemed completely unfazed and instructed, "Derek, bring a bowl. Pour some from Lady Carissa's stew pot

step forward, Carissa panicked and hastily gulped

she grinned cheekily. "You can't steal Lady Grace's good intentions from me, Your Majesty. She made it

"You little rascal. Still as possessive as you were when you were a child. Fine. Grace, you'll have to make me some

who had

smooth smile. "Of course, Your Majesty. But you should finish the broth you already started drinking. I made it myself-stewed