Provoking a Graceful Bloom Novel

---- Chapter 106 Though Selena's words were harsh, Sebastian could no longer afford to remain so naive. The Duke of Blackmoor's family now stood in a precarious position. One misstep, and all would be lost. As expected, Sebastian fell silent, his expression dark and troubled. A cunning woman, Ruth was indeed using the schemes of the harem against him "Lena, | can't marry. Once | do, I-" He couldn't finish the sentence. At the martial arts exhibition, Selena's careful arrangements had secured a brilliant victory for the Duke of Blackmoor's household.

Even the doubts voiced by outsiders about Sebastian had diminished considerably. But if he got married, the secret of his body would be immediately exposed. Ruth would surely seize upon it and turn it into a scandal, with the ultimate goal of claiming the Campbell Regiment. "Don't fret, Seb. I'll find a way. In the meantime, if you prefer not to leave the estate, study the current situation at the Southern Frontier," Selena said with a gentle smile. ---- No matter the circumstances, Sebastian found an unaccountable calm in his heart whenever his sister smiled like that.

She seemed so fragile, yet many people relied on her strength. Only, some people were not yet wise enough to see it. "Do you truly wish me to lead troops to the Southern Frontier?" he asked. "The war at the Southern Frontier has grown pressing in recent years. Seeing that Grandpa is old and unable to hold the region, the disorderly forces have begun to stir. You are needed at the Southern Frontier, but your health isn't fully restored yet. You must take the time to rest properly. As for this marriage, | will handle it. You need not worry," Selena continued soothingly.

As they left Lustre Pavilion, Sally couldn't help but say, "My lady, now that the matter has been put on the agenda, it will doubtless be finalized soon. If you wish for Lord Sebastian to lead the Campbell Regiment to the Southern Frontier, His Majesty will surely make sure he is married before he leaves." She twisted her fingers together, anxiety written across her face. "This matter is urgent, and it's far from as easy as you make it sound. You are merely comforting Lord Sebastian." "Don't frighten him and let him focus on studying the situation at the Southern Frontier.

He will need that knowledge soon enough, " Selena said softly. ---- Sally still looked uneasy. "The royal family will hardly allow Lord Sebastian to leave with the Campbell Regiment so easily. They will be eager to reclaim it. If his secret is revealed by a new bride before he departs, His Majesty will surely use it to argue that he is unfit to command the regiment, and they will take it back." She looked at Selena. "Do you truly have a plan, my lady?" "I don't know," Selena admitted. She was but a single person, not a miracle worker.

Not every difficulty could be solved at the flick of a thought. "But don't trouble Seb with this for now. In the afternoon, | will visit the queen dowager and see if | can learn more about the situation." That afternoon, Selena went to the palace, only to find herself unable to see Victoria, who had gone to a shrine to pray with Ruth. Upon their return, the unwell queen dowager retired immediately to rest, leaving no time to receive visitors. Selena waited for the better part of the day.

As night fell, Martha approached her and said, "Her Majesty has been taxed today and lacks the energy to receive you, Lady Campbell. Is there something of importance you wish to tell her? If you like, | can convey your message." ---- The meaning was clear-Selena was being asked to leave and not disturb Victoria's rest. Selena inclined her head. "I heard that Her Majesty has been unwell and simply wished to call on her. Since she is resting, | shall come another day." Martha smiled. "Very well, Lady Campbell. Have a safe journey home.

As | must tend to Her Majesty, | will not see you out." Selena nodded, then stepped out of the gates of Eternal Palace. Immediately, a presence followed her. A voice called out, "You wish to see the queen dowager? How unfortunate. Without my permission, you shall have no audience with her."