Chapter 42 Andrew's arrival had indeed brought a new dilemma . In seven days , the third prince of the kingdom of Dawnmere , Elias Talmar , was coming to visit . " I've heard that Prince Elias is fond of martial arts . To honor this distinguished guest , the king plans to hold a grand martial arts exhibition , " Andrew said . Selena lowered her gaze and stared at the cup in her hands . Sebastian's expression remained calm as he asked , " Mr. Smith , what exactly is a martial arts exhibition ? " Andrew smiled pleasantly . " Prince Elias travels with many elite fighters . This time , two of his finest are coming with him . Aurensia must match their strength with our own , so we'll be selecting the best fighters from noble families to compete against them . " General Campbell , you're a revered great general , known throughout the land . We know you won't hold back or give way to anyone . That is why His Majesty placed your family's name first on the list . " " Our family ? " Selena spoke up , catching the significance immediately . " The Duke of Blackmoor's family is known for their loyalty and honor . The Campbell Regiment is famous far and wide . Even Prince Elias has long admired you , General Campbell . His Majesty said this battle will be fought not only for the honor of the Duke of Blackmoor's family and the Campbell Regiment , but for Aurensia itself . You must win at all costs , " Andrew explained . Selena and Sebastian exchanged glances but said nothing . Wilfred wanted Sebastian to prove he still had the strength to lead the Campbell Regiment . For anyone else , defeat would just be a blow to their reputation and a disappointment to others . And in competitions , there were always winners and losers . No one could be victorious forever . But it was different for Sebastian . The news of his injury had spread like wildfire . If he were to lose , no one would accept the usual excuse that victory and defeat were simply part of life . They would only believe that his body was beyond repair , and that he no longer had the right to lead the Campbell Regiment . Wilfred was pushing Sebastian to hand the troops back to the royal family on his own . And once that happened , the Duke of Blackmoor's family would be finished for good . " Then , did His Majesty say what rewards await if we win ? " Selena asked with a hopeful smile , seeming eager but not quite . Andrew's expression grew more complicated , but his smile remained kind . " If you take first place , His Majesty will reward you handsomely . " But first place was something Sebastian could never claim , even if he were in perfect health . Andrew's smile never wavered as he offered what sounded like encouragement .. " You two siblings are the last ones left to support one another in the Duke of Blackmoor's household . Ever since the marquis passed ... Well , there have been whispers about your family keeping the Campbell Regiment under your control . This competition is your best chance to silence those rumors . General Campbell , you must seize it . " Sebastian's expression remained flat , but he nodded . " Thank you for your advice . I will remember your words . " 1/2 Chapter 42 +25 BONUS After seeing Andrew out , Sebastian locked himself away in his study , holding his spear the entire day without coming out . After knocking several times but receiving no reply , Sally went to find Selena . " My lady , my lord must be in a terrible mood right now . You should try to talk to him . " " I can't say much to him . This is something he has to work through on his own . After all , his injury won't heal overnight . There's no use in trying to convince him otherwise . " Without turning back , Selena hurried away , her steps quick and purposeful . " Don't worry . He's not one to be easily defeated . Once he comes to terms with it , he'll grow stronger . " Sally knew that Sebastian had an exceptionally good temperament . He was gentle with others , sincere in his dealings , and most importantly , unyielding in the face of adversity . She let out a long sigh as she watched Selena busy herself . " My lady , what are you doing ? " Selena turned around . Sally's eyes widened when she saw her holding a spear , carefully wiping it with a crimson silk cloth . " My lady ... " Selena arm swept lightly in an arc , the silver spear gleaming as it sliced through the air . " It's been a long time since I practiced , so I'm a bit rusty . After seeing Seb train today , I thought I might ask him to teach me a thing or two . After all , I am part of the Duke of Blackmoor's household . How could I not learn my family's spear techniques ? " Chapter 43