Provoking a Graceful Bloom Novel

---- Chapter 82 Pierced armor, yet unscathed! What a remarkable spear technique! "Thank you for showing mercy, General Campbell," Damon said, holding his spear and giving Sebastian a respectful nod. "I admit my defeat wholeheartedly." "Thank you!" Sebastian returned the gesture and smiled. "This spear was a gift from Prince Nathaniel. Its edge is unmatched, and it has a power of its own. Without it, | may not have won." Damon quickly stepped forward, patting Sebastian's shoulder and laughing more freely than before. "General Campbell, you're generous and honest. | admire you!

You are truly a warrior of Aurensia!" Andrew came forward, his own smile bright. "This victory belongs to General Campbell." After a brief hush, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause and cheers. Even Wilfred couldn't suppress a laugh as he declared, " Excellent! Well done, General Campbell! You are indeed a true warrior of Aurensia! Rewards, lavish rewards, shall be yours!" Though Damon had lost, his smile remained broad and ---- unshaken. To inspire such respect in a defeated opponent was no small feat. The ladies gazed at Sebastian with a newfound admiration.

The whispers of his supposed injuries were clearly nothing but malicious rumors spread by truly vile people who wished to tarnish the reputation of the Campbell family. Sebastian's victory today was so clear that everyone could see the truth for themselves. Those rumors would crumble on their own. "Thank you, Your Majesty," Sebastian said with a bow, preparing to step down from the stage. But a sweet, determined voice rang out, "Wait!" Everyone froze, turning toward the source. A young lady in red had risen from her seat next to Elias.

She stepped forward, her finger pointed boldly at Sebastian. "! challenge you to a duel!" It was Lilia "You are no match for him. Sit down," Elias said calmly. "Elias!" Lilia bristled. How could she possibly accept the outcome? That man had ---- defeated Damon, the most powerful warrior of her brother's men. She wouldn't accept defeat so easily; she had to reclaim victory! "Lwill face him!" Lilia declared. In a swift motion, she drew her fiery whip from her waist. With a few quick steps forward, she leapt into the air.

The whip, charged with her inner energy, glowed a brilliant red as it shot toward the stage, right at Sebastian. Andrew, still at the edge of the platform, hadn't even had a chance to step down. The sudden flash of red sent a chill through him, making him nearly jump out of his skin. Sebastian shifted quickly, stepping in front of the chamberlain and pulling him back several paces before coming to a stop." Mr. Smith, are you hurt?" Andrew shook his head, still trembling from the close call. Seeing Lilia move to strike again, he let out a low cry and hurried away.

Sebastian made no attack of his own. He simply stepped aside, letting her whip flash past him harmlessly. His eyes darkened as he said, "Your Highness, | won't duel with you. | suggest you return to your chambers and rest." Lilia's pride flared at his avoidance. "Why? Are you afraid to lose ---- to me? Today, I'll have you begging on your knees!" With that, she lashed her whip again, a streak of blazing red aimed straight at him. "Your Highness, if you persist in your insolence, | won't hold back, "Sebastian snapped. "Prepare yourself!" Lilia shouted, paying no attention to his warning.

Her whip cracked through the air again, each strike sharp and merciless. Sebastian's eyes darkened further. As the princess pressed forward relentlessly, leaving no room to maneuver, his patience began to wear thin. With a swift flick of his duskgold spear, the red whip split neatly into two.