Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair) novel Chapter 876

New Year's was rather dull.

At the palace banquet, some royal relatives, who only made an appearance once a year, came with their families. The men congregated in one area, while the women gathered in another.

Carissa, along with several princesses and consorts, accompanied Kylie and the concubines to greet Victoria.

The honored and noble concubines were all together, with Helen among them.

Molly and Fiona stayed in Ruth's palace and accompanied her, so they didn't come over.

Everyone exchanged airy pleasantries—some compliments here, a bit of flattery there—while competing in beauty and showing off their jewelry.

Salvador's concubines were also present, leaving Carissa dazzled. She only recognized Kylie, Sylvia, and Salvador's other concubines, Penelope and Grace, while the rest were little more than strangers to her. Those of lower rank mostly kept their heads down, occasionally smiling apologetically or daring to glance up.

Salvador only had a few offspring. Perhaps it was due to his dedication to governance that he spent little time in the harem.

Kylie's son, the legitimate eldest son, appeared quite composed for his age. He walked much like Salvador, with his hands clasped behind his back, chin slightly raised and back straight. If not for his short stature, one might mistake him for an adult.

Sylvia had a son and a daughter. The son she raised wasn't her biological child. The wet nurse brought him over to greet Victoria before taking him back. The princess was well-behaved, her hair styled in two pigtails. She was about four years old and was still quite innocent, but she had been taught proper manners and didn't fuss.

Penelope also had a daughter, the eldest princess, who was three months older than Sylvia's girl. Grace had a son, the second prince, who was only two years old.

The second prince was chubby, running with a wobbly gait. Victoria took a great liking to him, holding him close and giving him a few affectionate kisses before turning to Carissa.

"You should hold him too. May you give birth to a plump little one next year."

Carissa looked at the pudgy child and smiled as she extended her arms. "Your Highness, may I hold you?"

The second prince hesitated for a moment, glancing back at Grace, who smiled and said, "Go on. Your aunt will take good care of you."

Only then did the second prince open his arms for Carissa to hold him. She first looked at Victoria. While the queen dowager wore a smile, her eyes held a hint of chill.

After holding the heavy child for a bit, Carissa set him down, laughing as she said, "The second prince is truly adorable."