The Realm's Most Valiant - Part 10

"Ah, but you miss a fact in saying that, do you not, Lord Blackwell?" Karstly said, still contentedly kneeling, wearing a lazy smile. "This tournament is that turning point. A union of all that we could possibly command to our cause, if we wished of it. I do not suppose any of us thought that our little pocket of the country carried that influence before. Or that the name Patrick did."

"…There's truth in that," Blackwell admitted begrudgingly. "This tournament is the seedbed for it. Without it, I could not confidently declare the possibility in it. You are necessary, Oliver Patrick. Far more necessary than a man of your station ought to be. If you do not join us, we will not have a war to fight. We will be beaten from the start."

"My strength is not so profound," Oliver said, shaking his head. "You will not convince me with compliments."