Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1418

Of course, Carissa couldn't share her thoughts with Derek, so she simply thanked him and left.

After that, Salvador continued the same routine of summoning her for idle conversation after court meetings. Sometimes, these sessions lasted an hour, and other times, they lasted two hours.

Gradually, Carissa learned to take it in stride.

As his subject, if Salvador wanted her to act like a competent friend, she could oblige. Still, she couldn't help but think about how these midday breaks, a time the king should have spent resting, were now wasted on trivial chatter.

During this period, Grace visited a few times to deliver soup. Sylvia also came by, as did Penelope and even Jeanette.

Since the royal study was off-limits to the concubines, these women couldn't enter. Instead, they had to hand the soups to Derek, who would deliver them inside. However, if they brought along one of the princes or princesses, they were allowed to step into the study for a brief visit.

Perhaps because the concubines knew Carissa was often present, they always brought along a portion of soup for her as well. She would sometimes sip her share and wonder: If someone ever plotted to poison the king and the toxin was hidden in one of these soups, would she have to die alongside him?

Today, Grace came, accompanied by Caden. Salvador allowed the mother and son into the study.

Carissa had met Grace a few times while in the royal study. Her impression of the woman had always been favorable. Grace carried herself with quiet elegance, and Caden—young as he was—was well-mannered, a testament to his mom's capable upbringing.

Salvador clearly had a soft spot for the boy. Whenever Caden visited, the king's face would light up with genuine warmth.

Grace smiled as she directed the palace attendants to bring in the soup. Two bowls were placed on the table, one specifically for Carissa.

"I heard you coughing a bit the other day, Your Grace. So, I asked the cooks to prepare a bowl of honey and herb-infused broth this morning. It's good for soothing the lungs and easing coughs," Grace said warmly.

Carissa offered her thanks, "You've gone to so much trouble, Your Grace."

"It was just a simple request to the cooks. It was no trouble at all. There's no need to be so polite," Grace replied with a warm smile, then gestured for Carissa to drink. "Go on now, drink it while it's hot."

"Alright."

Carissa didn't stand on ceremony. The soups in the palace were always lavishly prepared, and since her throat had indeed been bothering her these past few days, the soup seemed perfect.