The Realm's Most Valiant - Part 3

"…This tournament of yours seems a perfect opportunity to test yourself, boy," Blackthorn said. "I was disappointed when you did not enter your name into the melee ranks. I wished to crush properly the man that dared to accept my daughter's oath of loyalty."

"I hope in time, you might forgive me for that, my Lord," Oliver said. "When a warrior like Lady Blackthorn offers you their blade, however, you would have to be a fool to decline it. I've grown to rely on her."

"…Hmph," Blackwell said. "Be that as it may – you will enter these tournaments, even if only as an exhibition. We will see your sword tested properly. You disgust me, in organizing an event like this, and thinking that you can only hide in the realm of strategy."