Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1639

Before leaving for Victory Pass, Carissa wanted to visit Victoria. She had long hoped for the chance to enter the palace to see the queen dowager, and perhaps catch a glimpse of Helen, or even Salvador.

In their past life, Victoria and Helen had passed on after living long lives. Even so, their deaths still grieved Carissa deeply. She had mourned for quite some time and thought it was a farewell for eternity.

Never had she imagined she would get to see them again.

As an unmarried young lady, Carissa could not enter the palace alone. Proper etiquette required her mother to accompany her and present a formal request for an audience. Once Victoria granted it, they were permitted to visit.

Since the loss of her husband and sons, Melanie had not stepped beyond the gates of Northwatch Estate. Now, Carissa hoped a short outing might lift her mother's spirits. Additionally, a meeting with Victoria might offer some comfort and possibly aid in her recovery.

Melanie didn't want to go at first. But her daughter pleaded again and again, and at last, she relented. Due to her poor eyesight, she struggled to walk well. Carissa supported her the entire way until they arrived at Serenity Palace.

Once there, Keith came out to greet them. When he saw Melanie, his eyes grew misty.

He tucked one hand behind his back and bowed slightly. "Madam Sinclair, I hope you've been well?"

for asking, Mr. Finley. All is

now smiling warmly. "Her Majesty has been expecting you. This

were rimmed with red. Sitting next to her was Helen. At Victoria's signal,

you chose to come," Victoria said, her eyes bright with unshed

The fault is mine," Melanie said, trying to

Victoria since they were young women, she could never quite hide her feelings in

at her with wide and red-rimmed eyes. She was still so young,

good that you've returned, my dear. Stay close to your

Carissa replied, lowering her gaze. But even as she blinked, tears slipped quietly down

grieving her father and

offering a few words of comfort when the moment called for it. She was never one for soothing others, not because she lacked feeling, but simply because she wasn't good with words. Still, awkward as her phrases

you were arranging a match for Carissa, but then there was no

clearly caught wind

with suitors, showing off its influence with no intention of settling a match. But she had never believed such talk. She thought there must be