Chapter 1515:
Harlee looked up, feigning ignorance with a glance that said, âIâm clueless. Donât rope me in, Kareem.â
âBut you do know.â
Kareem, smiling wryly yet affectionately, continued, âThey label it an operation, but itâs actually an international competition to honor our returning war heroes.â
âInternational competition?â Harleeâs lips twisted into a mocking smile, filled with evident skepticism.
Kareemâs expression shifted to one of mild surprise and considerable respect.
âHarlee, just how extensive is your network?â
Though Harleeâs connections couldnât reach deep into military secrets, she maintained ties with influential âold friends.â
Recently, during a visit to Holden, Harlee had inadvertently heard him discussing the matter. They had initially sought her expertise in training soldiers, which she declined, citing family commitments. The army was packed with skilled individuals. They didnât need her to act as an instructor.
It was for this very reason that Harlee came to realize just how shameless the Breezeland government truly was. Not only did they insist that Mogluyliaâs army face off against Breezelandâs advanced military with the most primitive tactics, but they also imposed numerous harsh conditions, testing the very limits of âshamelessness!â
âNo, just caught some conversation from the old guard at Holdenâs gathering.â
Harlee clarified her source nonchalantly.
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Kareemâs demeanor grew solemn.
âThis competition holds immense national significance. Itâs about the honor of our forces and ensuring our fallen heroes rest with dignity.â
Harleeâs relaxed posture shifted as she uncrossed her legs, her expression turning grave.
âWhat are you implying?â
Kareem explained, âTheyâve chosen to hold the competition near the graves of the fallen martyrs. All those martyrs who are about to return are watching us from above, observing this competition. We must show those deceased the courage and strength of the younger generation so they can rest in peace. There can be no mistakes in this competition!â His tone was unusually serious, a rare sight since Harleeâs return to the Sanderson family.
After a momentâs pause, Kareem raised his eyes to Harlee, his voice tinged with frustration.
âI despise the arrogance weâre up against, so I volunteered to lead. However, the upcoming Golden Summit will draw heads of state, and Iâm to lead our delegation. If not for diplomatic constraints, I would have gladly challenged the audacity of Breezelandâs military officials.â
As Kareem spoke his next request, his anger seemed to fade, and his voice softened. This was no small favor he sought. He proposed that Harlee take on the role of instructor and team captain for the mission to Breezeland.
It was a substantial request. The Sanderson family would likely object, but after observing the skills of the Shadow Moon Society members, Kareem believed Harlee surpassed him in certain military capacities. Kareem harbored high hopes that if Harlee agreed to coach, the chosen twenty soldiers would greatly benefit and likely secure a victory against Breezelandâs forces, thoroughly outshining their military prowess.
Yet, with Harleeâs infant son Felix only a few months old, Kareem hesitated, his concern evident. After much deliberation, he resolved to make his request. If Harlee declined, at least he would no longer be burdened by the uncertainty.
Time passed, and Harlee remained silent. Kareem suspected she was hesitant about leaving Felix for almost three months. Just as he prepared to lighten the mood, Harleeâs expression shifted, her smile taking a menacing shape. She spoke deliberately.
âKareem, my training methods are rigorous. Few can withstand them. Are you certain this is what you want?â
Kareemâs spirits lifted at her response. Was she indicating her willingness? His tone betrayed his excitement.
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