Chapter 441: The Shamans of Evenfall Part 2
“Do you think the enemy will not surprise us? Do you think they won’t use underhanded tactics?” Stryg asked the prone archmage shamans. “No matter how much we plan, we can never fully account for all of their tactics or attacks. We will be surprised, we will be caught out, and if this is your response to such an attack, then you are right, it won’t happen again, because you will be dead in the mud.”
Stryg glanced at the rest of the wide-eyed goblins staring up at him. “Any questions?”
The group of shamans and mageborns stayed quiet, unwilling to say a word, but the look in their eyes betrayed their thoughts. They disapproved of Stryg’s methods. Surprise attacks were dishonorable in a duel. Stryg knew that, but he was also aware that none of these shamans had partaken in a duel in years, perhaps decades. As for the mageborns who weren’t shamans, he doubted they were much better.
Stryg took a deep breath and faced the group with a stern gaze, “For too long the Sylvan tribes have only had to contend against nature and the beasts that dwell within it. I have been outside Vulture Woods, I have been to Dusk Valley, and the lands beyond. The people in those lands don’t care about rules, nor honor. Out there, all that matters is who lives and who doesn’t. I am here to try and make sure you stay on the living side.”
Lumi raised her eyebrow. “Are you trying to imply that our sacred traditions of duels have no place? That they are obsolete?”
Stryg knew she was trying to goad him, hoping he might attack her in return. Unlike the Vexia and Greznok, Stryg had an inkling Lumi wouldn’t be so easily surprised.
“Of course not,” Stryg smiled. “I would never so brazenly insult our people’s traditions. No, in fact, I believe our duels serve many important purposes. Like for instance, teaching lessons.”
“Do you wish to teach me a lesson, War Master?” Lumi batted her eyelashes. “If I recall correctly, it was you who called me ‘blind’ at the tribunal chamber.”
Stryg’s smile widened but his lilac eyes were cold, “A figure of speech. I’d never think myself wise enough to teach an Elect. No, I’ll leave that role to the Mother Moon.”