Chapter 46
Elena’s POV
After everyone dispersed and returned to their tents, Prince Deacon and I also turned and left.
We walked by each other’s side. I could feel him giving me a side glance every now and then, so when I could no longer handle it, I halted and gave him a look. “Say it.”
Sighing, he uttered in a low voice, “Rumors are already spreading around at the camp like wildfire, and it’s only been a night. We both know who started this, but don’t let it get you down. They’ll be all proven wrong once we go into a battle.”
I let out a small laugh and waved my hand. “Of course, I know. Who else will it be? Besides, those words won’t shake me. After all, actions speak louder than words.”
He halted from his steps and gave me a knowing look before he nodded his head a couple of times, letting out a mischievous smirk. “You’re right, actions do SPEAK louder than words.”
I narrowed my eyes at him and leaned a little bit closer before tilting my head, vividly seeing the glint in his eyes like geers on his head was working on something terrible. “You look like you’re planning a murder…”
“Silly!” he commented, tapping my forehead before pushing me back.
I massaged my forehead and gave him a pout. “That hurts.”
Amusement flashed in his eyes. “You were cut with swords and didn’t flinch, and that hurts? Yeah, right!”
With that, we shared a laugh before we parted ways, with me going back to my tent for breakfast and him going for a patrol.
“Hey, girl, you better see this!” Maise rushed into our tent in the afternoon, looking enthusiastic.
I kept munching on the grapes Prince Deacon had given me earlier and raised an eyebrow before asking, “What happened?”
Saige then popped out of nowhere with a massive smile on her face.
Feeling something amiss, I stopped eating and stood up as observed the enthusiasm in their faces – the kind I only see in them when they are in battle.
“Okay, what’s really happening?” I asked, alarmed.
“Prince Deacon snapped and called all of those warriors questioning you! They need you there,” Saige blurted out, widening my eyes.
What? I thought he said we’d wait for the battle and let them see it for themselves. What happened?
I let Maise and Saige lead me to where they were, and there I found them on the training ground. Warriors were lined up in front of the combat box, where Prince Deacon was, a small smirk hidden on his lips.
“It’s time you do, too.“.
I laughed inwardly as I was reminded of his words earlier and how a mischievous glint flashed in his eyes then. I was confused this morning, but this clarified what he wanted to happen. It looked like he intended to push them into combat with me.
He waved his hand, gesturing for me to join him on the stage. I shook my head and ran up to his side. With pursed lips, I whispered, “You had this planned, didn’t you?”
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Chapter 46
+25 BONUS
Prince Deacon only gave me a knowing smirk before he faced the crowd with a stern expression and said loudly,” For those still questioning General Elena’s right to lead, she has agreed to a demonstration. Anyone who can withstand ten moves against her will be free to voice their discontent. Step forward if you have the will to test her strength.”
Since he wanted me to lead troops, though the king hadn’t officially given me a title yet, I was temporarily titled one of the generals while I gave my aid here.
I sighed and looked around to see everyone’s eyes gazing upon me, all with discord and doubt. “Well, what the hell? Might as well have some fun and stretch out.”
I discern each of them, all of which who were manipulated to question my right to lead. It’s as if every sacrifice, every scar I carry, means nothing in the face of rumors and whispers.
Was a physical scar the only thing that weighs value? If it’s a physical scar, then they won’t even succeed in seeing one from me, as that’s how confident I was in my skills.
I stretched my neck and thought. “Perhaps it’s indeed better this way to show them myself than rely on words that others will twist.”
The tattooed man, whose name I learned was Gail, ran up front and approached me. “General, I’m here to prove a point. We just wanted to know that our leader has what it takes to lead and defend us in battle.”
“Fine, if you need proof, I’ll give it to you. But know this–strength is more than brute force.” With that, I gestured for Deacon that I was ready.
“Remember, the challenge is ten moves. No less, no more.” Prince Deacon stepped down and gave the area for us.
X
Chapter 47
Chapter 47
