Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1618

While in Rosevale, Elise and Selene made the acquaintance of several local peddlers who wandered the streets with goods for sale. It was something unique to Southmere Eastmarch.

Most of their wares were toys meant for children. Elise claimed she was too grown-up for such things, but in truth, she adored them and purchased two especially charming miniature griffin heads used for griffin dances.

In Southmere Eastmarch, griffin dancing was a beloved custom. Whether for the New Year or any joyful occasion, one could always hire a troupe. During Elise and Selene's time in Rosevale for the New Year festivities, things were particularly lively, with griffin dances all through the streets. The merriment was so grand, they found themselves utterly captivated.

After the New Year, Elise wrote letters home, sending one to the capital and another to Meadow Ridge, then continued on her journey.

They arrived in Port Liantra in February. The weather was neither cold nor warm—just right.

Elise first sought out Bertram Yeats, the Commissioner of Transport for Southmere Eastmarch. Upon showing her duchess' seal, he received her with the highest courtesy and took her at once to see the progress of her new residence.

The duchess' estate—Southmere Estate—stood along the main thoroughfare of Port Liantra, not far from the local authorities' office. With such vast grounds, laborers and craftsmen were still hard at work. Bertram informed Elise that it would be another half-year before it was ready for her to move in.

So, she decided she would rent a house in Port Liantra for the time being. She also asked Bertram not to inform the lesser officials of her arrival, as she preferred not to be watched or disturbed.

Bertram treated the two women to a fine meal and shared the current state of affairs in Southmere Eastmarch.

The local troops were known as the Wintermark Guard. They had once served under the palace, but some years ago—when Yuvan rebelled and the region was plagued by outlaws—the court had dispatched regional troops along with the Mystic Army to restore order.

Later, the Mystic Army left behind a hundred men, who then recruited more and formally established the Wintermark Guard. They had originally been stationed in Rosevale, but with Port Liantra opening trade routes with other kingdoms, the area had drawn the attention of pirates and bandits. The troops were thus moved from Rosevale to Port Liantra.

The Wintermark Guard was first commanded by Julian Gibson of the Mystic Army. After his passing, Rafael appointed Ansel Hargrove as their commander. Ansel's grandfather had once served in the Sinclair Army and had fallen in battle alongside Hector at the Southern Frontier, while his father used to be the governor of Rosevale.

Ansel himself was well-versed in both letters and arms—remarkably talented for his age. He had shown great skill in several campaigns against bandits, and it was Julian who had written to the court before his death and recommended Ansel for the post of commander.

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