Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Carissa was especially busy today. Her presence was felt throughout the palace grounds, as she hurriedly moved from one task to the next. Now, she was back at the racetrack, overseeing the arrangements and ensuring everything was in order.

The equestrian competition was set to begin shortly. A large group of military officers and young men from noble families had already gathered outside the track. All of them held their horses, eagerly awaiting their turn.

The event itself was straightforward each rider was to complete three laps around the track. At intervals, two-foot-high hurdles would be placed in their path, and each rider would need to leap their horse over the barriers without knocking them down. The winner would be the first to complete all three laps.

In truth, calling it a "competition" was somewhat of an exaggeration.

For well-trained horses and skilled riders, the two-foot barriers posed little challenge. But the height had been chosen specifically for the three royal princes, or more precisely, for Connor and Caden, as Cecil might not participate. If he did, Carissa had already arranged for someone to lead his horse in the event.

According to the schedule, the princes would only race after all the other competitors had finished their rounds. This was a decision made by Salvador, ensuring his sons would have a chance to watch the more experienced riders go first.

As they waited in the staging area, the princes would watch the horses gallop, and feel the rush of excitement and anticipation. Perhaps they would even feel the thrill of wanting to ride themselves.

The competition was not just about the event itself, but about the emotions they would experience along the way-the tension, the adrenaline, and the eager desire to soon take their turn.

Salvador and the officials were already seated in an elevated viewing box, which offered the perfect vantage point to observe the race in full. Rafael and Jeremiah sat next to the king. As for the women of the harem, they were led by Kylie and seated on the opposite side, a respectful distance from the men, separated by a small section of space.

been set up, its blue velvet covering fluttering in the wind. On either side of

where Salvador sat. While the chances of an assassin being present were

be in a prime position to

the line, waiting for

air was palpable, with even Ryan feeling sweat gathering in his palms. The scale of the event was overwhelming, especially with the sandy track and the imposing hurdles. The whole competition weighed like a heavy pressure

doubt, came from the spectators in the

Salvador had been accepting congratulations from his ministers, Kylie had hoped to send someone to fetch Connor. However, both the Mystic Army

about Connor's current state. Was

the Verdant Hunt incident. If he lost

happened, the name of the crown prince written in the royal edict

as nervous. But to her surprise, Grace was leisurely nibbling on some candied fruit. She looked utterly unperturbed, without a trace

1.n

her gaze unwavering as if no one around her existed. Her. indifference seemed to reach the very edges of the room; not even

spoiled Sylvia would end up in such