Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1618

Chapter 1618

While in Rosevale, Elise and Selene made the acquaintance of several local peddlers who wandered the streets with goods for sale. It was something unique to Southmere Eastmarch.

Most of their wares were toys meant for children. Elise claimed she was too grown-up for such things, but in truth, she adored them and purchased two especially charming miniature griffin heads used for griffin dances.

In Southmere Eastmarch, griffin dancing was a beloved custom. Whether for the New Year or any joyful occasion, one could always hire a troupe. During Elise and Selene's time in Rosevale for the New Year festivities, things were particularly lively, with griffin dances all through the streets. The merriment was so grand, they found themselves utterly captivated.

After the New Year, Elise wrote letters home, sending one to the capital and another to Meadow Ridge, then continued on her journey.

They arrived in Port Liantra in February. The weather was neither cold nor warm just right.

Elise first sought out Bertram Yeats, the Commissioner of Transport for Southmere Eastmarch. Upon showing her duchess' seal, he received her with the highest courtesy and took her at once to see the progress of her new residence.

The duchess' estate-Southmere Estate-stood along the main thoroughfare of Port Liantra, not far from the local authorities' office. With such vast grounds, laborers and craftsmen were still hard at work. Bertram informed Elise that it would be another half-year before it was ready for her to move in.

So, she decided she would rent a house in Port Liantra for the time being. She also asked Bertram not to inform the lesser officials of her arrival, as she preferred not to be watched or disturbed.

meal and shared the current state of affairs in

Yuvan rebelled and

Wintermark Guard. They had originally been stationed in Rosevale, but with Port Liantra opening trade

commander. Ansel's grandfather had once served in the

both letters and arms—remarkably talented for his age. He had shown great skill in several campaigns against bandits, and it was Julian who had written to the court before his death and recommended Ansel for the post of

spoke of Ansel, he was full

you may not know

Wintermark Guard is

the Rhantom Guard by

swift-and always seem to find the bandits' dens. In the past two years, banditry has lessened greatly, andthat is

Elise repeated. "Meaning there

the sky chase after profit. Port Liantra is open by land and sea, so there's too much wealth to tempt them. Where there's

been harmed?" Elise

years past, yes. But over the last two years, only three commoners have died at the hands of bandits. The criminals have grown clever, and now wait until the ships are out on the water before attacking. General Hargrove

the benefits of such ships. With a proper fleet, the soldiers could patrol the rivers and escort merchant vessels.

tell that Bertram was hoping she would speak to her father on the matter. But she gave no promise, pretending not to understand

if there's a need, then build

a sharp kick under