Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)

Carissa recalled she had met Edmund, Westhaven's third prince, outside Simonton City. He was now the crown prince of Westhaven. He harbored a deep-seated hatred towards the people of Starhaven. If he ascended to the throne, the situation in Fawnrun City would become very troublesome.

Carissa felt sorry for her grandfather, who was still stationed at Victory Pass even though he was well over sixty. By his age, most military officers would have retired and be enjoying life in the capital.

Carissa understood the king's intention to promote younger generals. But in recent years, there were hardly any who were truly capable of handling important roles.

Salvador had also stripped Rafael, who had been a feared general in both Westhaven and Sandoria, of his military authority. If he had still been in command, he could certainly have deterred potential threats.

For now, Oliver was in charge during this period of peace when there was no immediate danger. However, if conflict were to erupt again, he would be inadequate for the task.

"Rest early," Carissa advised. "The case will likely be handed over to the Royal Citadel. They might come by tomorrow for questioning, and perhaps the king will summon me to the palace."

Having visited Valor Estate, Carissa felt a bit unsettled and was reluctant to discuss it further. Particularly, hearing Barrett claim that she still harbored feelings for him was both laughable and exasperating. She was glad Rafael had left the capital. Otherwise, he would have been furious hearing such things.

The next day dawned clear and bright. The sun had just risen, painting the sky with beautiful, colorful hues.

Carissa was dressed and ready, and was about to ask why Ryan hadn't arrived yet when Lulu entered with breakfast.

"Ms. Spencer has taken Lord Ryan to the academy."

"So early?"

"Ms. Spencer began her martial arts practice early in the morning. Lord Ryan mentioned he didn't fully understand some of his lessons yesterday and wanted to head in early to consult his tutor."

"Oh? Were the lessons so difficult on the first day?" Carissa asked as she sat down, realizing she had forgotten to ask what the tutor had covered the previous day.

"I'm not sure," Lulu said with a smile. "But seeing Lord Ryan work so hard makes me happy."

"He's sensible and understands his future responsibilities," Carissa said with a mix of relief and concern.

In this world, whether in noble families or common households, stability and success always required one's own effort. If one relied solely on the blessings of their ancestors and parents without putting in any effort, they would end up being idle and potentially even become a wastrel.

The Duke of Northwatch's family didn't produce wastrels.

Their family currently held a duke title, which Ryan was set to inherit. As the only heir, he couldn't afford to be idle.

After breakfast, the various

stewards of the estate were waiting

outside. Garissa received their

reports in the side hall. She had instructed them to only bring forward the urgent matters, so it took about an hour to conclude the reports.

"Let's go and pay a visit to Mother," Carissa suggested. "The weather is so pleasant today, so let's take a stroll in the garden with her."

Helen was not fond of activities. She preferred to lie down when possible, sit when lying down was not an option, and only stand when she could neither lie down nor sit.

Just as Carrisa was about to step out, she saw Violet supporting Kayla as they walked towards her. Kayla's maid was carrying a gift.

Carissa turned to Lulu and said, "Go inform Mother that I have guests. I will come by and see her later."

Lulu nodded and greeted Violet and Kayla before going to report to Helen.

Carissa stepped forward and took Kayla's hand.

She responded gratefully, "I'm sorry for the disturbance yesterday. I came today to express my thanks." "There's no need to be so formal," Carissa replied. "You're injured and should be resting at home." She and Violet helped Kayla into the side hall.

Kayla's maid presented a gift.

"Madam Kayla is aware of what happened yesterday and feels that it

has caused trouble for you, ne?

Grace. She is grateful for your

assistance and has prepared a small token of appreciation. Please accept it

Carissa asked Pearl to receive the gift and smiled. "It was just a small gesture. You didn't have to go to the trouble of involving the matriarch of the Marquis of Elderglen's family."

Kayla smiled shyly and said, "Mother

said that someone as kind-hearted as you is truly rare. She intended thank youin person, but with all the recent rain, her cough has

than el. the

worsened. She was afraid that she

might pass on her illness to you, so she sent me instead."

Kayla had dark circles under her eyes, and no amount of powder could conceal her fatigue. It was obvious that she had not slept well the previous night.