Provoking a Graceful Bloom Novel

---- Chapter 137 Selena had warned that tomorrow would be eventful, and sure enough, Blackmoor Estate was in an uproar the following day. The Earl of Greymoor's family had arrived once more. This time, every member was present, except the youngest son, who had perished in battle. The two elder sons and their wives, as well as the youngest son's widow, were all present. Today, they were halted at a distance from Lustre Pavilion, not allowed even a step closer to its doors. "Impudence!' Stanley roared, slapping the arms of his wheelchair in fury. "You dare bar even me?

Who has given you such audacity?" The one blocking their way was Sally. She bowed slightly to each family member before speaking swiftly, "Lord Stanley, you may not know, but the duke has been unwell of late. Physician Klein has seen him and strictly instructed that no visitors disturb his rest. We beg for your understanding." "You insolent girl!" Stanley barked. "Do not dare use Physician Klein to frighten me!

| am Gideon's brother, not some outsider!" He glared at Sally, his voice low as he threatened, "Step aside, or ---- | swear you will regret it." Emily immediately sprang forward, her hand raised as if to strike. "How dare a lowly servant mouth off to my father-in-law! | shall see to it that you learn your place for your master's sake!" she hissed. But she didn't even manage to touch Sally. Yuvan intercepted her effortlessly, seizing her raised hand before it could land. "You dare lay a hand on me?!" Emily fumed, eyes blazing. Ivan stormed forward angrily, intending to strike.

However, Yuvan pushed him aside just as easily. Emily ground her teeth in fury. "How dare you! How dare a mere servant touch my husband!" Through it all, Sally remained composed, her expression unreadable. "My lord, we are servants of Blackmoor Estate. Naturally, we answer only to our masters. Lord Sebastian and Lady Selena have expressly forbidden anyone from disturbing Lord Gideon's rest. We have no choice but to obey." "So, you're determined to keep me from seeing my own brother? * Stanley said, his tone cold but oddly calm He didn't strike, nor shout. He only gave a derisive snort.

"All because this whelp has skill in combat? Do you think only the people of the Duke of Blackmoor's household can fight?" ---- Of course, Stanley was referring to Yuvan. Who did not know that Yuvan was Sebastian's chief guard, a master in his own right? With him standing watch, even Selena didn't fear that they could truly force their way inside. Yet to their surprise, Stanley coldly said, "Someone dares block my way, and you still do nothing? Will you not drive off these whelps so that | may see my brother, Aurora?" Aurora? Yuvan and Sally stiffened, exchanging a brief, tense glance.

Their eyes fell on the woman standing behind the gathered family. She was clad in plain garments, her hair coiled in a modest chignon. A woman in her mid-twenties, she was by no means a beauty, but her presence commanded respect and her bearing radiated a quiet authority. She stepped forward from the shadows of the crowd, her expression calm yet tinged with reluctant frustration. Clearly, she did not wish to be drawn into this quarrel, yet circumstances left her powerless. She was Aurora Nash, from the third branch of Stanley's household.

Stanley's first and second sons had been spoiled from youth. ---- They knew little beyond indulgence and idleness, and had always relied on the Duke of Blackmoor's family for support. At that time, Stanley had not yet received his title and held no rank. All that the Earl of Greymoor's household had now was achieved through his third son, Zane, the youngest and most remarkable of them all, the only one who showed true promise. From a young age, he trained diligently in combat and was known for his upright character.

Later, he served under Selena and Sebastian's father, distinguishing himself repeatedly on the battlefield Yet, that was not the most extraordinary thing. What set Zane apart further was his marriage to a lady equally skilled in martial arts from childhood. She was none other than the woman standing before them. Though not many outside of the family knew of Aurora's skill, everyone within the Duke of Blackmoor's household was well aware that she was even more formidable than her husband.