Lahat ng Kabanata ng Provoking a Graceful Bloom: Kabanata 491 - Kabanata 500

This wasn't Nathaniel's first time entering Elysian Pavilion, but it was the first time he had come as Selena's intended groom to meet Gideon. And today, he wasn't alone, having brought Isolde with him.Selena felt a little overwhelmed. She had only just agreed to let Nathaniel see her grandfather and explain things properly, but he had already gone to the palace and brought his mother along. Everything was moving far faster than she expected.Isolde had brought a few others with her, but thought they were too young and might cause trouble. Afraid they would offend the old duke, she sent them outside and told them not to follow.As one of those left in the courtyard to "amuse themselves", Oliver was full of resentment. "Mom, I'm already eighteen. I'm not a child. I'm not the same as Cryssie.""What's the difference? You're only two years older than me. We're the same," Crystal shot back at once."I'm not the same as you. All you do is play around. I have to learn how to help Natha

Nathaniel rose at once and stepped in front of the duke, his tone earnest as he said, "Lord Gideon, my devotion to Lena will never waver. I beg you to grant me her hand."Gideon's eyes were dim, his gaze moving from Nathaniel's calm mask to Selena beside him. She understood immediately. Her grandfather wanted to know whether this choice was her own, or if she was being pressured.She crouched slightly beside him, lifting her eyes to meet his. Her voice soft but steady, she said, "I... like Prince Nathaniel. I believe he is the one for me."It was the first time Selena had ever spoken her heart so plainly and without hesitation.Nathaniel felt a surge of heat in his chest. Behind his mask, his face remained calm, but his hands were clenched tightly. His clever little lady was young, yet steady beyond her years. To hear such a heartfelt confession from her was no small blessing.Gideon looked at Selena, then finally rested his gaze on Nathaniel. "You are certain, Your Highness?""B

Isolde felt truly helpless. Her son was like this, yet she couldn't understand why he could be so warm and attentive in front of Selena. Without this young lady around, she might have believed her son was born without a heart."Enough. I see Lord Gideon's condition isn't good. If anything were to happen..." She looked at Selena, gently adding, "Lena, don't be upset. I'm only speaking the truth. Problems have to be faced and solved."Selena nodded. "I understand."Nathaniel had invited Isolde along today precisely because of Gideon's condition. He had acted to prove his sincerity and regard. Selena could no longer pretend she didn't know the depth of his feelings. At this point, she had to face them."Tonight, I shall accompany Nate to formally ask His Majesty for permission to marry. It will also lift Lord Gideon's spirits. Besides, His Majesty clearly values you and Lord Sebastian highly. A proposal at this time will likely be met with agreement," said Isolde.She gently took Sel

Isolde frowned. She didn't follow at first."Lena's mentor?""I mean the legendary Lady Sinclair," Qiana explained."Lady Sinclair is Lena's mentor?" Isolde seized the other woman's wrist, her voice tight with urgency. "Is that true?"So, she truly had not known. However, Carissa and her family were forever on the move. If Selena had not mentioned it herself, even Qiana would have remained unaware.Qiana nodded. "Yes, Lady Sinclair is Lena's mentor. She taught her medicine, as well as passed on her battle strategy and understanding of governance. And her husband, Lucian, once famed throughout the Southern Frontier as a Warbringer, is Lena's mentor as well. He personally trained her in martial arts.""I see. No wonder," Isolde murmured, then let out a long sigh. "When Nate was forced to go to the Northern Frontier back then, I kept wondering who in Prince Frederick's ranks could be so formidable. There were rumors at the time that it was a young girl, but no one believed them. The

Isolde lowered her eyes, her thoughts complicated.Qiana still felt awkward. After a moment, she said, "I still have matters to attend to today. I won't disturb you and Lady Isolde—""I have nothing pressing to address. I simply came to chat with Isolde and hear of what she's seen while traveling outside the palace," Wilfred replied easily, waving a hand to stop her. "And since you come from the martial arts world as well, all the better, Qiana. I've always been curious about it."He called over his shoulder, "Andrew.""Yes, Your Majesty," Andrew replied immediately. "Lady Isolde, Lady Qiana, please join His Majesty for a meal in the Royal Garden. I'll have the food prepared."Qiana hesitated. Hearing the king address her by name made her stiffen inside. She glanced sideways at Isolde, who smiled faintly."If His Majesty is in such good spirits, then... you should stay, Qiana," said the concubine.Qiana could do nothing but softly murmur, "Very well."Palace luncheons followed