Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

By the time they reached the capital of Orivenia, it was the 13th of August. A full month had passed since they left Starhaven.

The afternoon sun shone brightly, and Kendrick lay back in the carriage as they entered the city.

Since entering Orivenia's borders, they had endured seven assassination attempts. The last one had been particularly brutal, likely involving suicide soldiers. Many of the Mystic Army were injured, and even Violet had been grazed on the shoulder. Thankfully, it hadn't struck anything vital.

Kendrick's fear was understandable. The attack had come when he was emerging from the washroom. The assassin's sword had pierced his chest, nearly plunging in completely. It was Carissa who noticed in time and swiftly turned, driving her spear into the assassin's chest before dragging him back with the hooked tip of her dagger, saving Kendrick's life.

Though the injuries were minor, Kendrick reacted as if he had been mortally wounded. He howled in agony for half the night before finally quieting.

Liam, now the prime minister of Orivenia, led the official welcome party. He spotted Carissa immediately and greeted her with a smile.

"General Sinclair, it's been a long time. Your elegance remains as striking as ever."

Carissa dismounted and returned the gesture, her gaze assessing him. To be honest, she hadn't recognized him at first.

He had aged considerably, his hair streaked with gray, his beard and eyebrows mixed with white. Yet, his eyes still shone with a sharp vitality, more so than when he had been on the Southern Frontier. Back then, he had been consumed by rage. His expression had been cold and stern, his presence one of deep sorrow, as if he lived only for revenge.

Mr. Stellwyn." Carissa

other officials one by one. Since his Stellish was impeccable, there was no need for a

they were escorted to the royal guest residence. This venue was not typically used to host foreign

to tend to

the queen's decree, acknowledging the long journey and insisting that the Starhaven delegation rest the

After a hearty lunch, they retired

late in the evening. When she finally opened her eyes,

her eyes sleepily, Carissa mumbled in a hoarse voice,

smiled and replied, "I slept a little, but I'm not used to the bed here. I

you become so picky about beds?" Carissa chuckled as she sat up, noticing the worried expression on Lulu's face. "What's wrong? Something

for your presence. They want you to come to the palace

concerned. With all the assassinations

it was understandable that she

stretching