Hidden Monarch: The Silent Resurgence

"Stop dreaming. I would rather be in love with a pig than with you!" Lydia said angrily.

'I didn't even like any of the outstanding young men pursuing me. Why would I like you?'

"Lydia!"

Meanwhile, an eye-catching woman approached them.

She was gorgeous, and dressed up provocatively.

Her hot pants barely covered her hips, matched with a tight crop top that perfectly showcased her body.

She glanced at Henry casually.

'Dresses plainly but looks decent. But what does a bumpkin from the mountains like him have to match with Lydia? He's aiming for the moon.'

"I'm here." Lydia greeted her, then turned toward Henry. "This is my best friend, Sarah."

"Hello!" Henry extended his hand and smiled.

Sarah did not even spare him a glance and grabbed Lydia's hand instead and said, "Let's go. Lewis and the others are waiting for us."

Lydia nodded and invited Henry with her. "You can come with us!"

Sarah was there to embarrass Henry so that he would eventually give up.

They got into Lydia's car and drove quickly to their destination.

It was a fencing club with opulent facilities that drew wealthy and powerful members.

"Finally! You two beauties are here. Lewis has already started his match." Several young people greeted them as they went into the club.

They completely ignored Henry. However, Henry did not take it personally.

Lewis played elegantly on the fencing piste, and each swordplay drew the girls' attention.

"How handsome! That swordplay is too graceful." Sarah praised him.

"That's right, we are far behind Lewis in fencing."

Meanwhile, Lewis defeated his opponent effortlessly.

"Impressive! Randy is also skilled, but Lewis defeated him." Lydia praised the man.

Lewis removed his helmet, approached them, and said, "Lydia, Sarah, you're here."

He noticed Henry and asked, "Who is this?"

"Him?"

"He's the bumpkin I told you before." Sarah mocked.

Lewis turned toward Henry.

'So, this is Henry Truman—nobody but a bumpkin. How dare you compete for Lydia with me?'

'He has overestimated himself and is looking for trouble.'

He quickly regained his smile and said, "Oh, it's him. He's a guest now, regardless. Let him join us.

"How about joining us for a match?"

"Not interested." Henry shook his head.

"Are you afraid?"

"That's right. I don't want to be embarrassed."

"Forget it, my bad. Fencing is a noble sport. A bumpkin like him probably can't even hold a sword properly, let alone come up the piste and make a fool of himself," Lewis said.

Henry chuckled and said, "Not really. I simply have no interest in fancy stuff."

"What did you say? How dare you, a bumpkin, look down on fencing?

"Hiding your fear by insulting such a noble sport? Shame on you."

"It doesn't matter if you don't join the game right away, but you have insulted this noble sport, so I must teach you a lesson today. Step up to the piste and fight like a man." Lewis sneered.

"Fine, I'll give you the chance since you insist on making a fool of yourself."

Henry shook his head and walked onto the piste.