TC - Big book Doubt

I have a doubt with this question, can anyone say how this is solved?

Let’s look at the second blank first:
For they (principles) are _____ the regimentation and discipline
Principles: individual liberty and democratic rights
The word in the blank connects the principles (liberty) with regimentation
Blank 2: contrary to

Now for blank 1:
‘,’ = support
the second half = principles are contrary to military efficiency
the first half = wars require these principles to be ___________
blank 1 = forsaken

forsaken (B, C, E), contrary to (A, C, D)

Ans. C

both gaps share similar ideas: rejected & bad or accepted & good
now go through the choices- C. (rejected and bad)

got it, thanks!

yep I almost employed the same strategy, but I am wavering when going through the choices (my very bad habit). thanks, got it now