Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1296

A flicker of disgust passed through Celeste's lowered eyes.

What a waste—no skills, no abilities, lacking in both wisdom and courage, unable even to be ruthless. How could someone like that accomplish anything significant?

But when she lifted her gaze, her eyes shone with renewed light. "You have a kind heart, my love. I didn't fall in love with the wrong man."

Having made his decision, Oliver found himself unexpectedly calm.

He cupped Celeste's face in his hands, imagining a future where they ran away together—living in secrecy, enjoying a life of wealth and leisure. That idea didn't sound half bad.

He had known glory once, served the kingdom, and given his all. Who didn't value their life? He wasn't doing anything wrong.

And honestly, to speak what shouldn't be spoken—whether he stayed or left the Southern Frontier, it would hardly matter. After all, Louis and the others didn't hold him in high regard.

"Send for Carl. I need to discuss things with him. If we are to leave, we'll take everyone with us," Oliver instructed.

Carl had once been the drill master at Silverstone Estate, and Oliver had brought him along to the Southern Frontier.

Oliver hadn't known that Zoey had sent her people along with him. When Celeste arrived, she had discreetly removed all those spies. Now, everyone left in Redstone Manor were trusted confidants.

Carl was initially stunned by the plan but quickly warmed to it.

He had been accustomed to the luxury of the capital, enjoying a comfortable life as a drill instructor in Silverstone Estate. But since arriving here in the Southern Frontier, everything had been a struggle. Even a simple drink was hard to come by, and there were no fine dishes to enjoy when they dined out.

If he could return to wealth and comfort, why would he stay here and suffer?

Moreover, if war came and Oliver went to the frontlines, could they sit idly by? They would be expected to fight too. It would be a death sentence for them! They weren't even official soldiers. Even if they tried to flee, they wouldn't be punished.

Now, with Oliver's concubine and child returning to the capital, this "grand gesture" was surely a tribute of the highest order.

Timothy couldn't help but feel a pang of irony.

That evening, Oliver hosted a banquet at his manor, claiming it was also to discuss preparations for the battle. He invited Louis and Timothy, as well as the two military advisors, to join him.

The Southern Frontier Army now numbered little more than 200,000. There were several generals, but in truth, it was Louis and Timothy who had long held the reins. Today, they had even sent for Zachary Larkin.

Zachary was busy overseeing repairs to the catapults and other siege equipment. Once the repairs were completed, he had to inspect them, so he didn't attend the banquet.

"Whatever plans are discussed, just have General Quinton brief me later," Zachary had said.

Louis and Timothy had their strategies to share. Ever since they received reports from scouts, they had been preparing for battle. Multiple plans had been drawn up, and today, they would finally be able to hash out the details.