Chapter 145

If Carissa agreed to return, that would be fine. But if she refused, it would be quite embarrassing. After considering this, Rebecca decided, "Let's send Charlotte first. If she refuses, we'll think of another way."

Rebecca was unwilling to go herself. If Carissa truly reconciled with Barrett, Rebecca wouldn't be able to maintain her position as a strict mother-in-law. The Warren family already had enough trouble with Aurora—they couldn't afford another difficult situation.

While Rebecca pondered her predicament, Carissa had already gone to Serenity Palace to meet Victoria.

The Empress Dowager was in her early fifties but had taken excellent care of herself. Despite a few wrinkles at the corners of her eyes, she appeared youthful. Her black hair was speckled with a few strands of white, barely noticeable.

She exuded an air of grandeur and elegance, her demeanor becoming even gentler and more approachable when she looked at Carissa.

"Oh, child," she said. "You ran off to the battlefield without a word. If something had happened to you, how would I explain it to your mother when I see her again?"

Victoria's eyes showed a hint of redness, revealing her concern and affection for Carissa. Perhaps seeing Carissa reminded her of Melanie, causing her some heartache.

"I'm sorry to have worried you, Your Majesty. It was my fault," Carissa said, accepting the blame obediently.

"You may rise. Come closer so I can take a good look at you," Victoria said kindly.

Carissa stood and moved in front of the Empress Dowager. As she was about to kneel, Victoria stopped her.

"Come sit beside me."

Carissa sat down gracefully, a proper smile on her face, her demeanor that of a refined young lady.

Victoria took Carissa's hand and studied her face. "Oh, you've turned into a monkey again. Whenever you returned from Meadow Ridge, you always had a mischievous demeanor and a layer of dirt on you, like a monkey. You're not mischievous anymore, just covered in dirt and dust."

Victoria pinched Carissa's cheek lightly. "During the year you stayed in the capital, your skin was so well-hydrated it could practically produce water. Now, with just this pinch, my hand is covered in dust."

Carissa laughed awkwardly. "I didn't have a chance to bathe or change clothes since I came straight to the palace after my journey. I'm still quite smelly. I'll sit a little farther away so you won't smell it, Your Majesty."

"It's fine," Victoria said kindly. "I spend all my time in this palace, surrounded by scented candles. I wouldn't mind a whiff of your sweat for a change."

Victoria managed to distance herself from the memories of Melanie and spoke to Carissa with the authority of the Empress Dowager.

"You've returned from the battlefield as a hero. I've heard Salvador speak of your deeds three times now, and I am very pleased with your accomplishments. You've brought honor to women like us. Aurora also earned my praise, but she pales in comparison to you! I know a little about her situation and won't comment further. Let's just say I was blind at the time."

Victoria looked a bit annoyed when she spoke about Aurora. However, since she had previously praised her, and considering the past conflicts between Aurora and Carissa, Victoria didn't want to say much.

"You're too kind, Your Majesty. The achievements are not mine alone; they are due to the marshal's strategic brilliance. I merely shared in the glory. Compared to those who have fought on the battlefield for years, my contributions are truly insignificant," Carissa responded humbly.

"It's always difficult, but even more so for women," Victoria said, her eyes filled with compassion as she looked at Carissa. "Now that the war has ended, what are your plans? If you wish, I could help arrange a marriage for you."

Carissa quickly replied, "I am grateful for your kindness, Your Majesty. But what I want most right now is to return home, take a good bath, and have a proper rest. I'm not thinking about marriage for now."

Victoria sighed. "I understand that a woman's path is not limited to marriage. Your mother once told me she hoped you would marry and have children. Personally, I would prefer to see you become a renowned Starhaven general. However, I can't let your mother be unable to rest in peace because she fears for you. She she was truly terrified of the battlefield. It took almost everything from her."