The Queen Who Fights Back (by Lily Hastings) novel Chapter 67

Chapter 67

Hannah’s voice was sharp, edged with bitterness, and it was hard to tell whether she was trying to explain things to Nova or simply letting out all her frustration.

She pressed on, her words laced with anger. “More than twenty years ago, the main family looked down on Dad because he had no skill in martial arts. They banded together and pushed him out, saying he wasn’t even worthy of being called a Blake.”

She paused, her fists clenched tightly. “Then, just a couple of years back, when they caught wind of Dad’s business booming in Ravenport, they suddenly wanted us back. It’s revolting.”

Fueled by rage, Hannah stormed into the living room, her footsteps heavy on the hardwood floor. She pointed a finger at the elderly man seated on the sofa, his dark suit impeccably tailored. “How dare you show up here? Didn’t you get enough of my anger last time? Get out. Now.”

The man she addressed was Hudson Blake, an older gentleman with hair slicked back neatly. Flanking him were two imposing bodyguards, their faces hidden behind dark sunglasses, exuding an intimidating presence.

“Enough, Hannie,” Charles interjected sharply, turning toward her with a stern expression.

Though he managed to quell her outburst, Nova noticed Hannah biting her lower lip, tears threatening to spill from her eyes. Her face was a mixture of fury and hurt, a clear sign that the wounds from the past still ran deep.

Maxwell’s face was grave as well, though he appeared steadier than Hannah. Noticing Nova’s puzzled look, he leaned in and spoke quietly.

“The main branch of the Blake family is based in Morales,” he explained. “They’ve been influential since the 1920s and 30s. Back then, they weren’t involved in business per se, but were famous for founding the Blake Martial Arts School.”

He continued, “During the war periods, martial arts were held in high regard, which cemented the family’s status. But over the last century, as times changed, martial arts schools lost their grip on power.”

“The main family adapted, blending their traditional martial arts heritage with modern needs. They established the Blake Security Group in Fergus, the capital of Morales province.”

Maxwell’s voice lowered slightly. “Today, that company is a national powerhouse, ranking among the top three wealthiest in Morales.”

Charles was a descendant of the family that led that group.

“The main family specializes in bodyguard and security services, emphasizing combat skills like fighting, boxing, and free combat. But Charles—he never had any martial arts talent. For years, the main family humiliated him.”

“More than two decades ago, they cast him out as worthless.”

Maxwell’s eyes darkened. “The Blake Group Charles built in Ravenport has nothing to do with security. It’s a completely different path.”

“Apparently, the main family caught wind of his success and tried repeatedly to bring him back.”

Hudson, the elderly man, was the main family’s butler. He had come to invite Charles and Fiona to return for a visit.

Hearing all this, Nova finally understood the source of Hannah’s agitation.

Hudson seemed to recognize when it was time to leave. He addressed Charles with a calm tone. “Charles, I’ve watched you grow up. I know you hold grudges against the main family, but blood ties matter more than old wounds. I know better than anyone how much you want to come back.”

“Your father’s 80th birthday is approaching. You could bring your children and show the family what they’re capable of.”

He added gently, “They don’t have to be extraordinary. I believe the family will welcome you back. This is a rare chance, Charles. Please think it over.”

Hudson’s words were sincere; he wasn’t there to stir trouble. He came bearing an olive branch.

After speaking, he gave a respectful nod to Charles and Fiona, then left with his bodyguards.

In truth, bringing Maxwell and Hannah along could have improved Charles’ chances of rejoining the main family—a dream he’d held his entire life. But he couldn’t bear the thought of exposing his children to possible humiliation.

“Dad, I’m coming too,” Hannah said firmly, stepping in front of Charles as she caught the resolute look on his face.

She spoke with conviction, “Max and I have trained for years since we were kids. Why? To prove to those snobs in the main family that the children of the father they kicked out are just as strong as they are!”

Her gaze flickered to Nova, as if drawing strength from her presence. “And now, we even have Nova.”

The truth was, Hannah wasn’t certain if Nova would truly join them.

Maxwell nodded solemnly. “Dad, let’s go together.”

Seeing his children stand their ground, Nova spoke up quietly but firmly, “Count me in.”

She could sense the tension in both Maxwell and Hannah ease the moment she said those words.

Charles looked at his three children, gathering all his strength. “Have you really thought this through? No regrets?”

“You’ve never been to the main family. You don’t know how terrifying their strength is. Over twenty years ago, they already had many combat prodigies—each one on the level of elite bodyguards.”

He continued gravely, “Over the years, they’ve sent talented youths to compete in underground international circuits to unlock their full potential.”

“I’ve heard the strongest of them has already reached a formidable rank internationally—within the top 200 on the mercenary leaderboard.”