Her Graceful War Song

Violet nodded. “Got it, Ivy and I will handle it. Don’t worly.”

Carissa pulled her down to sit as well. “There’s something else I need to tell you in advance, so you can prepare yourself.”

Violet plopped down next to her friend, raising an eyebrow. “Why so serious? You’re scaring me. What is it? Just spit it out!”

Still unused to the style, Carissa adjusted her hair as she spoke, “Grand Princess Eleanor is pretty much done for now. Prince Yuvan and his people will definitely be trying to find out whether she’s confessed anything or not. Anyone who’s had dealings with court officials won’t dare reach out to her. I have a feeling your cousin will come looking for you.”

Violet’s expression turned cold. “She won’t get a single word out of me. Don’t worry about me leaking anything. With her level of cunning, she couldn’t trick me if she tried.”

After a brief pause, she tilted her head. “Wait, are you asking me to pretend to be friendly and play along to fish information out of her?”

Carissa shook her head. “No, just treat her the same way you always have. Don’t change a thing. She’ll probably come with Lady Fiona, who’s sharp. If you so much as hint that you’re suspicious of Prince Yuvan, she’ll pick up on it.”

“That’s easy, then. Ever since Molly married Prince Yuvan, I haven’t given her the time of day. I’ll just keep doing that,” said Violet.

Carissa nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Don’t suddenly act all warm and friendly–that’ll obvious something’s up.”

“Got it. Aren’t you heading to the palace? Go on.” Violet waved her hand, urging her.

Canssa glanced at the sky but stayed seated.

“Why aren’t you leaving yet?”

just

make it

Carissa grinned sheepishly. “I was a little excited and… got up too early. It’s still dark out.” Violet chuckled. “If you leave now, the sun will probably be up by the time you get to the palace.” “There’s no morning court session today, and I doubt the king will be in the royal study that early.” Violet looked surprised. “Didn’t Mr. Walker tell you what time you’re supposed to go see the king?” Carissa smiled sheepishly. “Yeah, he did mention it when he gave me the royal edict–around nine in the morning.”

“What? It’s only five now! Why did you get up so early? You could’ve slept for another hour!” Violet exclaimed, scrunching up her face.

Carissa stood up, pacing in circles before dropping into a basic martial arts stance. “I’m just nervous, you know?”

Violet burst out laughing and grabbed Carissa’s hand. You’re gonna be the death of me! I thought you

weren’t nervous at all. Yesterday, you looked totally unbothered when you received the edict. Come on, let’s head outside and spar a little. It’ll loosen you up.”

“Great idea!” Carissa stretched her legs, clearly excited. “It’s been forever since I’ve had a proper workout. But just so we’re clear–this is just a friendly match, no serious fighting.”

“As long as you don’t go too hard, I won’t either.” Violet jumped a few times, still nimble of her feet. Besides, we’re only using fists, no weapons. Can’t get too serious without those.”

Out in the courtyard, the sound of fists cutting through the air echoed as Carissa and Violet went back. and forth. They launched punches, blocked with their elbows, kicked through the air, and more.

It felt like they were back in Meadow Ridge, carefree and full of energy. The cool breeze helped blow away the heat rising from their sparring. As the sun began to rise through the mist, its soft glow didn’t hide the strength they both radiated.

Travis had just woken up when he heard the sounds of fighting. He leaped into the air and bounded to the courtyard. Seeing how excitedly his friends were sparring, he joined in without hesitation.

“Here I come! Haha! Take this!”

“Hey! Why are you aiming at my face? I’ll kill you!” Violet yelled as she dodged.

Travis laughed heartily. “What’s wrong with hitting the face? Behold my invincible fist, Cari!”

With a loud thud, he aimed a punch right at Carissa’s face, leaving her stunned.

For a moment, she was frozen in shock. Then, she roared, “I was supposed to watch your ‘invincible fist“, not get punched by it! Why would you hit me? Oh, for heaven’s sake, I’m going to the palace today! My eye oh no, my eye!”

She dashed inside to check her reflection in the mirror Luckily, her eye was only slightly swollen and red there was no bruising. But it hurt badly.

“You’re done for.” Violet turned and punched Travis in the face. “That’s what you get for showing off. We were just sparring, not going all out.” NôvelDrama.Org: owner of this content.

That single blow sent Travis crashing to the ground.