All Chapters of Provoking a Graceful Bloom: Chapter 371 - Chapter 380

Not long after Qiana left, another sharp whistle echoed from the opposite ridge. This time, there was no explosion from the stone forest, but an assassin who had almost emerged from the trees suddenly crumpled to the ground. Though Selena couldn't see clearly, she knew at once that he must have taken poison to end his own life.She trained her keen sight on the opposite ridge, but there was nothing to be seen. The white-clad figure had vanished, hidden somewhere she couldn't discern. They had crossed paths with a formidable adversary this time, though none of them had managed to catch a clear glimpse of that person's face.Only one assassin remained. If even he was commanded to take his own life, Nathaniel and his troops would be trapped within the mountains with no hope of escape.Selena lifted her slender fingers to her lips and drew upon her inner energy, producing a whistle. The sound drifted softly through the air, its meaning indecipherable to anyone who heard it.The remaini

Immediately knowing how Natheniel felt though he hadn't spoken a single word, Selena asked, "Why are you angry?"His displeasure clung to him like a cold mist. His gaze was sharp and chilly, but beneath it lay a trace of tenderness. There was even a flicker of excitement so subtle she might have missed it if she weren't paying attention.This Demon Lord had such a conflicted heart."Of course I'd be angry seeing you here. Do you have any idea how dangerous this place is?" Nathaniel said, sighing quietly.He was truly angry, but also so very moved."My father won't be pleased. Have you spared a thought for your household?" He reached up and brushed a dried leaf from her hair with surprising gentleness."I know. That's why I refused to let Seb follow me," Selena replied, blinking innocently."Utter foolishness."She may have been skilled in combat, but she was still alone, and the assassins had Thundershells. Did she not understand how powerful those explosions were?Nathaniel c

The three of them made their way down the hill, soon returning to the edge of the stone forest. The troops, who were seated and resting, began to rise to salute when they saw Selena and Nathaniel approach."Don't move. You have been trapped in the forest for days without food or water. Your strength is at its limit, so don't waste it now," Selena quickly said.Nathaniel waved a hand, and at last the men settled down, each watching them with solemn eyes. Selena's gaze swept over them, noticing their cracked lips that clearly indicated dehydration."There's a stream not far from here. Nathaniel, take them to get some water. Aunt Qiana and I will search nearby for food," she added.Though the surrounding hills and valleys offered many resources, finding something edible would take time. At the mention of the stream, the men's spirits lifted immediately. They could endure a few more days without food, but the absence of water had been agonizing. They were truly parched!Nathaniel frow

"You wouldn't have strayed too far from your men. When Cloud and the others were about to enter, you could have stopped them if you wanted to. But you allowed Cloud to lead them in, only to become trapped when you followed to rescue them. Isn't that right, Your Highness?" said Selena."What?" Cloud stared at Nathaniel, disbelief written plainly across his face.Even in his shock, he didn't dare speak further. Because of his mistake, he had felt genuine remorse for three whole days... no, four now. His guilt was so heavy that he had almost wanted to atone with his life."Why do you look so surprised?" Liam scowled at him. "Even if His Highness intended this, your recklessness was your own fault. Do you think that excuses you?"Cloud lowered his head and resumed gnawing at his meat in silence.Selena glanced at the prince. "I won't try to guess your thoughts, Your Highness. I see that Ronan is not among the troops. He should return tonight, right?"Nathaniel reached for her hand ag

Ivy was momentarily taken aback. She knew of Selena, of course, but she couldn't understand why this remarkable young woman had ignored everyone else and come straight to her to make an introduction.Hastily, she saluted. "Yes, I'm Ivy. It is an honor to meet you, Lady Campbell.""Please, no need for such formality," Selena replied, taking Ivy's hand in hers. "I've admired you for some time, and it is my true pleasure to meet you today. If you don't mind, I would like us to be friends.""I… I dare not presume!" Ivy stammered, nearly retreating behind Ronan for cover.Ronan looked on, equally perplexed, glancing at Nathaniel for some clue. But even the prince seemed unsure of Selena's intentions. It seemed she had taken a particular liking to Ivy.Selena seemed to sense she had startled the other woman, but her eyes shone with genuine enthusiasm. She had long sought someone with such talent, and now she had finally found a person whose skill she truly admired."Have I frightened y