Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair) novel Chapter 364

Upon hearing Carissa’s obedient response, Adrian extended his hand and beckoned her over. “Come here.”

Carissa obediently walked over, and Adrian reached out to flick the tip of her nose.

“Ouch!” Carissa exclaimed. “Sage Adrian, that hurt.”

“Punishment!” Adrian said sternly. “This is a mild punishment for not speaking up when needed.”

A flicker of pain crossed Carissa’s eyes, but she quickly masked it. “Understood. It won’t happen again.” Adrian noticed her fleeting expression of distress, and sighed inwardly. The hardships that his youngest apprentice had endured were too painful. He couldn’t start thinking about them, or it would be too taxing on his heart.

He took her hand, guiding her to sit beside him.

“Rafael’s character and virtue far surpass Barrett’s. I believe he won’t let you down or treat you poorly. But remember, the world is ever–changing, and so are people. In the past, he might have cherished you more because he couldn’t have you. Now that he’s married you, there’s no guarantee he won’t grow tired and look elsewhere. Men are unreliable. Even if you like him, don’t trust him entirely. Understand?”

Carissa’s fifth guild senior, Isaac Prince, nodded vigorously in agreement. “Yes, men are all untrustworthy. They’re disgusting. We can’t trust them completely, or you might end up with a scoundrel…”

“Be quiet!” Kyle tapped Isaac on the forehead.

Kyle thought Adrian’s words were enough to unsettle Carissa, and didn’t think it was wise to scare her further. But since Adrian was present, he dared not contradict him. He was surprised to see Isaac echoing Adrian’s sentiments.

Violet, who was listening nearby, couldn’t help but laugh. “Five, you’re a man yourself. How can you be so disgusted by men?”

Isaac was skilled in both music and using musical instruments as weapons. Known as Five due to his position in the Pathfinders Guild, his face turned cold as he responded, “How could I not be disgusted? That’s why I avoid associating with men and prefer the company of women.”

“You’ve only made excuses for yourself,” Violet scoffed. “Everyone knows you love to linger in brothels. You play the harp and flute, and you’ve seen courtesans dance to your music.

Isaac glanced outside with a hint of nervousness. “Stop talking nonsense. If Sage Everett hears you, I won’t let you off.”

Violet shrugged. “No risk, no rewards, right?”

Isaac turned away with a blank express

1/2

Kyle was nudged aside. Since he had been staying at Northwatch Estate for a few days before Carissa’s marriage, it was inappropriate for him to monopolize the time meant for her and the other guild members.

Winona was still holding Carissa in her arms, and the older woman was moved to tears. This strong. independent woman couldn’t hold back her emotions.