Her Graceful War Song

Helen had the confidence to speak that way because over the years, she had spent very little and gained a great deal. The rewards from the palace, gifts from various families, and the respect shown by the younger generation all added up. Many of them, especially Violet, were generous in their offerings.

For her only granddaughter, Helen could never be too reluctant. One of her favorite sayings was that, after she was gone, everything would belong to Elise.

Now, as Helen's daughter-in-law and granddaughter arrived at her residence, it was no surprise that she brought up the topic of Elise's martial arts training at Meadow Ridge again.

"It's not that it's bad, but it'll be so long. She'll hardly return home, and then she'll say she wants to go off on her own again. She's such a delicate little thing-how can she go wandering like that? I can't argue with my son, though. He's a man who doesn't understand such things. I can never make him see reason," Helen said.

"Grandmother, I'm not delicate. Look at this punch!" Elise proudly raised her fist and waved it in front of Helen's face. "One hit from me, and even a wild boar would fall unconscious."

Helen sighed inwardly. "Other girls use their hands to play musical instruments, write poems, or at least manage the household accounts. But you? You're out here using your hands to fight wild boars. What, do you think we're starving for your prized pork?"

"Grandmother!" Elise exclaimed, leaning against her with a mischievous grin. She wrapped her arms around Helen's neck, laughing playfully. "Other girls might be dainty, but they're not special. Only your granddaughter can knock out a wild boar with one punch. Don't you feel proud?"

Even though Helen adored her granddaughter, she wasn't placated so easily.

"I don't. It's fine for others to get into fights, but you? You're my precious heart. How can I bear for you to be hurt? Even a bruise would break my heart."

As she spoke, she shot a look of reproach at Carissa, silently blaming her for sending Elise to Meadow Ridge. Carissa simply smiled and kept her gaze down, pretending not to notice. It was better not to say anything at all.noveldrama

Over the years, the relationship between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law had remained cordial, all thanks to the latter's ability to appear unaware of things. Of course, Helen never pushed too hard. Whenever they disagreed, Carissa would simply offer a way out, and the older woman would take it without any airs of superiority.

Seeing that her daughter-in-law didn't argue or lecture, Helen gladly accepted the peace and added, "Of course, learning martial arts is good. It strengthens the body and keeps one from being easily bullied."

The following day, Elise's title and official records were issued. Her fief was located in the southern region, so her title was the Duchess of Southmere. With her own fief, she would never go hungry, no matter how far she roamed.

Southmere Eastmarch was located in Lumoria and consisted of fifteen districts. Its administrative centre was in Port Liantra. After sea trade routes were opened and the Maritime Trade Office was

over

established, the once-poor region grew into a wealthy and prosperous land.

This decision had been made with Cecil's approval, after discussions with his court officials. For years, Rafael had worked tirelessly as the regent, gaining the respect of all at court. Now, with Cecil fully assuming control as king, he had his own plans.

How could a mere duchess be given a fief in the southern region? In truth, it was a gesture meant for Rafael. With the region being far from the capital, once Rafael stepped down as regent, he could go there and rule as a sovereign in all but name.

Besides, only the Southmere area was prosperous. Other regions around it like Rosevale, Maplecrest, Riverlain, and Wellmere remained relatively poor.

By now, Cecil had taken full control of the throne. He was growing more steady and carried himself more and more like a real ruler. It wasn't that he feared Rafael; he simply wanted to provide him with a comfortable retirement.

Naturally, Cecit still depended on his uncle for now. Even if Rafael were no longer regent, he would still hold the position of prime minister. Cecil understood how weary his uncle was. So, when the time came for Rafael to retire, and if he truly wished to step away, the king would have no choice but to agree.

In his heart, Ceeil saw no difference between his uncle and his father. It was his uncle who had supported him until he took the throne. It was his uncle who had helped him overcome his fears, who had taught him day and night, who had gently guided him, and who had shown him what it meant to be a king.

He had long since come to regard his uncle with the same respect and reverence

as he did his father.

When all the nobles at court learned that Elise had been conferred the title of the Duchess of Southmere, they knew that honor was far more prestigious than that of a princess, and that it was a title given in honor of Rafael. Though Elise had never visited Southmere Eastmarch, she had heard much about the famous cherries from the southern region. Cherries were rare in the capital, and the only time she had ever tasted them was at Meadow Ridge.

Adrian once had a craving for them, so he had Winona send her people on a rushed delivery. Elise had received a bunch herself, and the taste had stayed with her ever since.

So, Elise had decided. The first place she would visit was Victory Pass, to see her great-grandfather and great-uncles. The second place would be Port Liantra, where she would lie under the cherry trees and eat to her heart's content.