Chapter 99: Let’s Spar
The soldiers’ reactions were expected. Even General Howard, without witnessing their abilities firsthand, had been skeptical.
“I know many of you doubt these heroes’ ability to turn the tide of war, but I urge you to witness their strength for yourselves,” Givia said, anticipating their skepticism. She had planned to recount their adventures in the Eastern Empire, but since Abyss and his companions had decided to demonstrate their abilities, she wouldn’t steal their thunder.
Abyss stepped forward, addressing the soldiers, his voice calm and clear, amplified by magic, reaching even the farthest ranks. “Soldiers, I know many of you are wondering why Her Highness values our abilities so highly. We’ll begin with a demonstration of Miss Leona’s martial prowess. Is there anyone among you skilled in combat who would like to spar with her?”
Even without revealing any other abilities, his subtle use of magic to project his voice showcased his power. Amplifying one’s voice wasn’t difficult for a mage, but Abyss’s technique wasn’t simply amplifying the sound. He was channeling his voice directly into their ears. Those with magical knowledge understood that if he wished, he could render them all deaf in an instant.
“That would be me!” Leona said, stepping forward with a confident stride, her movements now precise and elegant, the knightly etiquette she had once learned returning instinctively. She knew she had to make an impression.
Her silver hair and her Western Empire features were unmistakable. The soldiers were puzzled. Why would a Westerner help them? Didn’t she know that if Givia reclaimed the throne, the treaty signed by Kevin would be nullified?
Abyss, sensing their confusion, communicated telepathically with Leona. After a moment of thought, she addressed the soldiers. “You must be wondering why I, a Westerner, would help you. I am indeed from the Western Empire, and I love my country. But I’m also a knight. A knight’s code forbids us from bullying the weak. The Western Empire’s war against you was an act of aggression, a blatant act of bullying. If I had the power, I would never have supported it. If you can reclaim your territory without harming innocent civilians of the Western Empire, I will support your cause. There are things more important than profit in this world!”
The war had been orchestrated by Leona’s most hated enemy, Empress Sienna, and supported by the spineless Emperor Beos, whom she despised. She, too, abhorred this unjust war. Her sincerity resonated with the soldiers.
However, she still looked like a child. How could such a young girl be a knight?
“Now, I’d like to demonstrate my skills,” Leona said, a smile playing on her lips. “Is there anyone among you who considers themselves a skilled warrior? I challenge you to a spar. We’ll follow standard dueling rules. The first to be incapacitated loses. How about it?”
No one moved. It wasn’t that they looked down on women. Ossi culture valued strength, regardless of gender. Ossi history was filled with powerful female warriors and rulers. But Leona looked too young. Who would challenge a child? With her beautiful silver hair, her bright eyes, and her delicate features, no soldier had the heart to fight her.
“Don’t let her appearance deceive you. Miss Leona is eighteen years old, a fully trained knight, older than some of you,” Givia said, encouraging them. “I challenge any of you to last three moves against her!”
General Howard added, “Whoever accomplishes this task will receive a roasted chicken as a reward!”
The Restoration Army’s rations were meager. Meat was a rare treat. The promise of a whole roasted chicken tempted a few of them.
An officer stepped forward, raising his hand. “I accept your challenge, Miss Leona!”
“Excellent! Come forward!”
“Yes, Your Highness!” the officer said, approaching them. “Baron Offord, fifth-tier, second-grade Dou Warrior, reporting for duty!”
A fifth-tier, second-grade Dou Warrior was considered a formidable opponent. Most ordinary soldiers were around second-tier, third-tier being veteran status. Fifth-tier indicated specialized training, placing him among the elite.
Leona and the officer faced each other in a cleared space, each holding a wooden training sword.
“Use your Dou Qi freely. Dirty tricks are allowed. Don’t hold back. Don’t worry about injuring me. Fighting at your full strength is a sign of respect,” Leona said.
“Understood!” the officer replied.
“Begin!” Givia announced.
The officer moved instantly, his body a blur, his movements too fast for most soldiers to follow, his body enveloped in blue Dou Qi flames, his sword thrusting towards Leona. A speed-focused Dou Warrior!
Clack!
The sound of wood meeting wood echoed through the air as the officer’s attack was abruptly halted. Leona had blocked his sword with her own.
The soldiers gasped.
If she had simply parried his attack, they wouldn’t have been so surprised. But she had blocked his thrust with the tip of her wooden sword!
The two sword tips met perfectly, not a millimeter off!
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