Her Graceful War Song

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The evening before the trip, Carissa, accompanied by Rafael, made her way to bid farewell to Helen. Since she was leaving early in the morning, before her mother-in-law would be awake, Carissa chose to say her goodbyes the night before.

Helen had known about the trip to Orivenia for some time. At first, she hadn't fully understood the situation and felt Salvador's order was a bit much. Why did it have to be Carissa, of all people, who had to undertake such a long and tiring journey?

But after hearing from Violet that the real purpose of the journey was for Carissa to visit her maternal family, Helen only sighed quietly.

"The greatest pain in life is the separation from loved ones, whether by life or death. And the greatest joy is the reunion with loved ones after a long time apart."

Of course, those words were spoken to Violet, and would never be said in front of Carissa. To say them to her would be like rubbing salt in an open wound. After all, Helen had come to love and cherish her daughter-in-law, and didn't want to make her feel any more sorrow.

Now, as she watched Carissa prepare to leave, Helen couldn't help but feel a touch of emotion. She had once fiercely opposed this marriage, having disliked Carissa simply because it would be her second marriage, which meant she wasn't worthy of Helen's noble and majestic son.

But in time, Helen grew to fear and respect Carissa. Formidable as she was, Carissa had proven to be fiercely protective, and in the end, Helen's heart softened.

The relationship had evolved, and now, all that remained was the desire to cherish her.

"I've prepared some gifts for Grand General Sullivan and his family. They've already been loaded onto the carriage. Be sure to give them my regards, and wish them good health and happiness," Helen said.

Carissa nodded. "Thank you, Mother. I also wish you good health."

Helen glanced at her, thinking how her daughter-in-law was far less charming than Violet, who always spoke so sweetly. It was good enough that Carissa wished for her health, but why not say a little more? Others would have showered her with all sorts of pleasantries.

Her eyes then fell on her son, standing like an immovable mountain next to his wife. At that moment, Helen realized there was no point in complaining. He was even more reserved than Carissa.

When he came to pay his respects, all he said was, "Greetings, Mom."noveldrama

No more, no less.

Helen gave Carissa a few more reminders for the journey and urged them to rest early so she wouldn't be delayed in the morning. The couple took their leave and returned to Orchid Hall.

Lulu had finished packing everything. She, along with Violet and Cynthia, would be accompanying Carissa on this journey.

Lulu was filled with excitement. She knew how long Carissa had yearned to visit Victory Pass, but various obstacles had kept her from going. Now, at last, the wish would be fulfilled.

Once her things were packed onto the carriage, she turned to see Rafael and Carissa returning. A bright smile spread across her face as she hurried to greet them.

"Lulu, why aren't you off to rest yet?" Carissa teased, reaching up to lightly tap her cheek. "If you're not up in the morning, I won't wait for you."

"I'll go right away. I promise, I won't make you wait in the morning," Lulu replied hastily.

She couldn't bear to be separated from her mistress for long, but there was still some work to do. Lily and. Joy were preparing snacks for the journey, meant for Carissa to eat on the road, and Lulu couldn't resist offering a hand. She waved

cheerfully and hurried off, her steps light with excitement.

Even Rafael noticed and remarked, "It's been a long time since I've seen Lulu so lively and happy."

Carissa's smile faded slightly as she replied, "She sees my family as her own."

Rafael nodded thoughtfully. "And I see you treat her as a sister. No wonder she doesn't want to marry."

Carissa sat down and began untangling her hair. "Even if she does marry, it will be to someone in the capital. I couldn't bear to send her too far away."

Rafael moved behind her and gently wrapped his arms around her neck, his face brushing against hers.

His voice was filled with longing as

he said, "You be gone for at least three months. I can't bear to be

apart from you. I wish I could go et

with you, but with all my duties. I wonder if your grandfather and his family will be disappointed that I'm not coming along."

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Carissa leaned into him a little more. "I wish you could come too, but you're needed here. You have the princes to teach, and His Majesty can't be without you. Grandpa and everyone else will understand."

OUMS

Rafael sighed, his handsome face tinged with regret. "Just remember to write to me often."