Her Graceful War Song

Leona had many visitors today, so she hurriedly changed her clothes before stepping out to greet them.

Helen noticed Leona's rosy complexion, and felt relieved. It seemed Leona was doing just fine, and her cheeks were even brighter than her own. After the formal greetings, Helen took a seat. Upon inquiring, she learned that Leona had just finished practicing martial arts with Alana.

Helen grumbled inwardly. It was true what people said-spend some time with martial artists, and even proper young women would be throwing punches.

Leona chuckled awkwardly. "I was feeling a bit bored and thought I'd join Alana for some training, but I don't think I can reach that level of elegance to show off at any events."

As usual, Helen was blunt and said, "Martial arts itself is hardly elegant and fit for high society, so you shouldn't worry about that. Just do what makes you happy."

Gillian cleared her throat loudly.

Didn't Helen feel awkward saying that? Most of the people present were martial artists!

Helen glared at Gillian. "Stop that. I didn't say anything wrong. It's true martial arts aren't really fit for refined settings, but not everything has to be. Martial arts is practical. It keeps one healthy and helps one protect oneself. Leona, I support you in practicing it." Leona blushed slightly, and said, "Thank you for your support, Aunt Helen. But honestly, I didn't do much. I just followed along and got a bit sweaty, which felt nice."

"Right. A good sweat can do wonders for your body," Helen said as she nodded sagely, trying to appear wise.

Yet the truth was, Helen disliked swearing and physical activities. She couldn't stand the sticky feeling, nor the way her clothes would cling and smell after a workout.

Rafael glanced at Alana, impressed by her method. No matter how heavy his heart felt, a good session of practicing martial arts could help him vent and feel better. He had experienced it firsthand.

"But you also need to take care of yourself. Your body still needs time to heal, so don't rush into any intense training," Carissa said.

Alana chimed in, "It's not like we really got into it. She just moved around according to her own ability. It hardly counts as real training."

Leona felt a bit embarrassed. "Yes, that's true. I just moved a little."

Violet leaned closer to Carissa, subtly distancing them from Rafael, and whispered, "Alana's really blunt in what she says. If I heard someone talking about my skills like that, it wouldn't matter if it was true or not. I'd be furious!" Carissa laughed, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Violet. "But you're still not as good as I am."

Violet grinned. "I concede to that."

Years ago, Carissa had proven that

fact. When they had both gone to the Southern Frontier, Violet had expected Carissa to have let her

skills slip as she had focused on net

settling down. Violet had thought she would easily surpass Carissa then, but she realized there was still a noticeable gap between them in their very first battle.

It was only a narrow gap, but it was still there.

Before long, Kiera arrived with Logan in tow. Since her marriage, Kiera had only returned to Hell Monarch Estate twice, and both times it was only for a little while.

The young couple was deeply in

love. After tying the knot, Logan moved into tvory Estate. They often went on trips together, and they would usually spend most of the month away from home. When they were home, they only visited Hell Monarch Estate to check in.

Kiera looked radiant. After a brief exchange of greetings, Rafael quickly whisked Logan away.This belongs to NôvelDrama.Org: ©.

In their presence, Logan appeared refined and polite, the epitome of a talented young man on the verge of great achievement. It was hard to believe he was the same person known for his playful nature and disregard for studying. Rafael welcomed the chance to chat with another man, eager to escape the all-female company that left him with little to contribute in conversation.

Logan shuffled his feet, feeling like a timid mouse in front of his brother-in-law. Once they reached the main hall and sat down, he found himself waiting quietly for Rafael to ask something.

Rafael had initially planned to ask

where they had been exploring, but

seeing Logan's anxious demeanor

drained his desire for conversation.

They simply sat there, sipping their coffee and nibbling on snacks, their gazes drifting outside.

After a while, Logan stood up.

"Where are you going?" Rafael asked casually.

Feeling a bit awkward, Logan replied, "I need to...uh, relieve myself. Would you like to come along?"

"No, thanks!" Rafael said, shaking his head as he picked up another pastry.

Well, he did have the slightest urge to go, but what would it look like if two men went off together for that purpose?