Her Graceful War Song

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Jeremiah's words lingered on his lips, but in the end, he held them back. However, that brief moment of hesitation didn't escape Salvador's notice.

Salvador smiled and said, "The Hell Monarch has already accomplished the great feat of reclaiming the Southern Frontier and driving the Sandorian forces out of Starhaven. It's time for those beneath him to rise as well. I believe Rafael would be willing to give them that opportunity. As a leader, one must know how to recognize and use talent."

"Your words are wise, Your Majesty," Jeremiah responded.

After considering it carefully, Jeremiah knew the Hell Monarch's return to the capital would be for the best. While he could secure more benefits and reparations from Sandoria through negotiations, Salvador's health was always in question.

The capital needed the Hell Monarch to maintain order and stability.

Once Jeremiah had left, Salvador fell into silence for a long moment before turning to Derek. "I also wish for their reunion soon. It's been far too long since they've been apart."

Derek lowered his eyes. "You're compassionate, Your Majesty."

Salvador's silence continued, the joy of victory slowly fading as unease settled within him. He knew he always had to say things he didn't mean and do things that went against his heart, but he had no choice.

At Hell Monarch Estate, Travis had always regretted not setting off a long string of Flamepetals during the New Year.

But now, there was no need for regret. Jacob had gone out and bought a whole pile, telling him he could set them off however and wherever he liked-front door, side door, back door, or even in his room if he wished.

Jacob had only one condition-wherever they were set off, he had to hear the cracking sounds.

Carissa had called for the seamstress to come to her, requesting several new outfits in the latest styles. After a long, harsh winter, her skin had become much drier. She went to the city with Violet and Cynthia to visit the perfumer's shops, buying rose-scented creams to nourish her skin. Her hair also needed proper care, and jasmine oil was a must.

Violet helped her pick out lip balms, rouge, and eyebrow pencils. In a teasing tone, she said, "Even though you're naturally beautiful, beauty doesn't last long without the riches to maintain it."

Carissa took everything Violet recommended, then made sure to buy the same items for Violet and Cynthia as well.

Violet looked at the gift with some surprise. "I used to be the one giving, but now someone is giving to me -it feels like the world has turned upside down."

Carissa laughed softly. "You should learn to accept it. I am wealthy too."noveldrama

Violet shrugged. "I'll accept it. You can keep giving, then."

Cynthia was absolutely thrilled. As soon as they got home, she went wild with the powders and paints,

turning her face into something resembling an artist's palette. In Bun's eyes, however, she was always the most beautiful.

Carissa also selected a gift and had it sent to Victory Pass for Dominic's birthday.

On the eighth of February, Rafael returned to the capital.

When he left, it was in secrecy. When he returned, it was with great fanfare.

Alongside him were Louis and some of the military officers from the former Sinclair Army.

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As they entered the city, the streets were lined with citizens cheering their arrival, many officials standing in formation to greet them. Rafael searched the crowd, hoping a glimpse of his wife's face. However, there were so many people, and the cheers were deafening.

He couldn't find her.

However, he did spot the tall figures of Bun and Travis-they had to jump to be seen.

Rafael and his party rode straight to the palace. There, he still had to offer his apologies.

Surrounded by officials, they entered the palace. After greeting Salvador, the sound of celebration and praise washed over them like a tidal wave.

Salvador looked at Rafael, his

younger brother, thin and weathered

from the journey. However, the festive atmosphere made all other thoughts fade away. There was only joy and a deep sense of concern for his brother.

He issued an edict announcing a celebration feast for the following evening, to which all officials of the third rank and above, as well as the wives of the court officials, were invited.

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After dismissing all the court officials, he stayed behind in the royal study with just his brother.

Rafael had already noticed how much thinner and more exhausted Salvador looked. As he knelt to offer

his apology, he couldn't help but ask, "Are you well, Your Majesty?"

For some reason, Salvador felt a sudden heat rise behind his eyes.

Of all people, this man was the one he should guard against the most. And yet, time and again, he found himself revealing emotions he kept buried from everyone else.

Perhaps this was the bond of blood between brothers.

"Get up," Salvador sighed softly. "Sit down. This battle was hard fought. You've worked so hard."

He didn't answer the question about his health-it was impossible to hide, anyway.

"Worrying for the ruler is the duty of the subject. The hardship was well worth it," Rafael replied.