Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1114

Carissa remained silent, her eyes filled with a trace of regret.

Every martial artist, at some point, likely harbored a dream—a dream of roaming the world with a sword, stepping in to right the wrongs they encountered, and having people call them "heroes" wherever they went.

Carissa had often dreamed of such things as a young girl, especially when she had first started her martial arts training and seen a glimpse of her own potential. In those days, she had been proud and certain that she was destined for greatness.

In her dreams, she was a peerless warrior, slaying countless evildoers. Even when they begged for mercy beneath her blade, she would still say, "This is for the sake of justice in the world."

As she grew older, she realized that it wasn't that simple. Being a hero, dispensing justice on one's terms, was actually against the law. A heroine had no authority to enforce the law. She wasn't a member of the official courts or government.

Also, to kill someone, there must be solid evidence. Even if one had personally witnessed a criminal committing a crime, one still needed to provide proof to the authorities. After the authorities reviewed the case, if the sentence was death by beheading, it still had to be confirmed by the Supreme Court before execution.

It was a tedious process, with investigations and checks designed to prevent wrongful convictions. However, it also allowed those with power and influence to manipulate the system to their advantage.

Carissa remembered how Winona had once talked to her about it. Even if the crime was proven beyond a doubt, if the criminal's family had enough money, they could suppress evidence or discredit witness testimony. Whether the sentence was reduced or completely overturned depended entirely on the amount of money offered.

The realization had shattered Carissa's ideals. How could the world be this way?

She hadn't believed it at first, and argued with Winona for a long time. The law, Carissa insisted, existed to punish the wicked. How could it be twisted by money?

Officials were paid by the government, and the government's money came from the people's taxes. They were public servants, supported by the people, and should act on behalf of the people.

She had even gone to ask Adrian.

He had gently patted her head and said, "Winona is right. But in truth, the current system is as good as it gets."

Carissa had been confused. "This is as good as it gets? That's a sad thing to hear."