Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

After resting at Victory Pass for five days, Kendrick finally recovered. Now that he was well, it was time to set off for the capital.

Though Carissa was reluctant to part with her family, she could only say a tearful farewell. She bowed deeply to Dominic, nearly causing tears to spill from his own eyes.

Davis, who held the utmost respect for Dominic, was the most emotional. While Carissa silently wept, Davis openly wept. He knew this was likely the last time he would ever see the venerable old general, who had served Starhaven in Victory Pass for decades.

Dominic was already in the twilight years of his life, and he looked much frailer than the last time they had met. Even though Salvador had granted him leave to return to the capital, the long, grueling journey would likely be too much for him to bear, and the Sullivan family might not permit him to make the trip.

Dominic spoke with Davis for a while, and the latter's sobs grew louder.

Cindy had never asked about the details of Heather's situation. But now, at the moment of parting, she pulled Carissa aside and inquired about it.

Hearing that she was in prison but that Leona had been helping her, making sure her days weren't too hard, Cindy let out a small sigh. If a crown prince was appointed and a general amnesty was granted, Heather might even be released.

"Well, that's good. Though your grandfather never speaks of it, I know he still worries. There aren't many parents who are truly cruel-hearted. Your grandfather's not cruel, but Heather-well, her treatment of Leona was harsh. It's a wonder Leona still looks after her."

doing well and living freely now, and she'll only get better from here on out," Carissa

Cindy said, her gaze lingering on her niece as tears welled up in her eyes. "After this farewell, I don't

replied,

of her emotions, and managed to

Barrett standing among the farewell group, staring blankly in her direction. As soon as their eyes met, he quickly lowered his gaze, looking slightly flustered. Carissa averted her eyes, preparing

horses kicked up dust, the wind carrying it in swirling gusts. Before they realized it, the weather had turned

group left Victory

but the pain of parting was just as deep. The sand from

was eager to return, Kendrick still recovering from the several assassination attempts and injuries, was visibly broken.

turned into a slow trek, with good food, good rest, and comfortable lodging along the way. He said he couldn't

I've done, who else deserves to take credit for the success of this mission if not

already suffered

especially at night when