Her Graceful War Song

By the time they reached the capital of Orivenia, it was the 13th of August. A full month had passed since they left Starhaven.

The afternoon sun shone brightly, and Kendrick lay back in the carriage as they entered the city.

Since entering Orivenia's borders, they had endured seven assassination attempts. The last one had been particularly brutal, likely involving suicide soldiers. Many of the Mystic Army were injured, and even Violet had been grazed on the shoulder. Thankfully, it hadn't struck anything vital.

Kendrick's fear was understandable. The attack had come when he was emerging from the washroom. The assassin's sword had pierced his chest, nearly plunging in completely. It was Carissa who noticed in time and swiftly turned, driving her spear into the assassin's chest before dragging him back with the hooked tip of her dagger, saving Kendrick's life.

Though the injuries were minor, Kendrick reacted as if he had been mortally wounded. He howled in agony for half the night before finally quieting.

Liam, now the prime minister of Orivenia, led the official welcome party. He spotted Carissa immediately and greeted her with a smile.

"General Sinclair, it's been a long time. Your elegance remains as striking as ever."

Carissa dismounted and returned the gesture, her gaze assessing him. To be honest, she hadn't recognized him at first.

He had aged considerably, his hair streaked with gray, his beard and eyebrows mixed with white. Yet, his eyes still shone with a sharp vitality, more so than when he had been on the Southern Frontier. Back then, he had been consumed by rage. His expression had been cold and stern, his presence one of deep sorrow, as if he lived only for revenge.

"Thank you, Mr. Stellwyn." Carissa smiled.

"Such an honor!" Liam chuckled, greeting Davis and the other officials one by one. Since his Stellish was impeccable, there was no need for a translator, which made the exchanges all the smoother.

After the pleasantries, they were escorted to the royal guest residence. This venue was not typically used to host foreign envoys, but Liam explained that this was an exception due to Lisandra's high regard for the Starhaven delegation.

Upon hearing of Kendrick's injury, Liam even brought a royal physician to tend to him, ensuring that every detail of this visit was handled with the utmost care.noveldrama

Liam also conveyed the queen's decree, acknowledging the long journey and insisting that the Starhaven delegation rest the night before a grand banquet was held in their honor the following day.

Everyone was absolutely exhausted. After a hearty lunch, they retired to their rooms to bathe, change, and rest.

Carissa slept until late in the evening. When she finally opened her eyes, she saw Lulu waiting nearby.

Rubbing her eyes sleepily, Carissa mumbled in a hoarse voice, "Why aren't you asleep?"

Lulu smiled and replied, "I slept a little, but I'm not used to the bed here. I couldn't get comfortable."

"When did you become so picky about beds?" Carissa chuckled as she sat up, noticing the worried expression on Lulu's face. "What's wrong? Something happened?"

Lulu reached out to pull the cool blanket off her and said, "The queen sent someone to ask for your presence. They want you to come to the palace alone- just you. No other officials were invited."

Lulu was clearly concerned. With all the assassinations they had encountered

along the way, it was understandable that she feared something might be amiss.

Carissa nodded, stretching her body

and loosening up her muscles. "I'll

go with Vivi. Don't worry. Mr. Stellwyn should send someone to escort us along the way. They won't let anything happen to us here in the capital. This is their territory, after alp."

Lulu frowned. "That's true, but we've encountered plenty of assassins on this journey."

Carissa smiled. "Exactly. The fact that we've been targeted on the road means the assassins know that once we enter the capital, they won't get another chance. They wouldn't risk coming after us here."

She stood up, preparing to change and comb her hair.

Her clothes were simple and practical, without the lavish finery one might expect of nobility. Her position as the commander of the Mystic Army required efficiency, not the finery of a princess consort. The simple attire allowed her to move freely, ready to take action at any moment.

The weather was warm, so she and Violet wore short-sleeved tunics with leather vests over them for added practicality. Their hair was neatly tied back in practical braids, and neither wore jewelry.

Liam himself came to escort her. The carriage was spacious, flanked by 30 palace guards on each side, all armed and standing ready.