Return of the General's Daughter

Jethru had decided to stay that day, swayed by Lara’s persuasive words. Whether he admitted it or not, he truly missed his disciple.

A twinge of concern gnawed at him as well—Lara, a spirited young woman, surrounded by hardened soldiers. She was strong, no doubt, but even the fiercest warrior could be vulnerable in such an environment. A sense of resolve began to stir within him. He would not leave her behind. When he departed the next morning, she would go with him.

That afternoon, the soldiers stationed across the vast Gwamuros Plains experienced a rare moment of respite. Their commanders, seeing an opportunity to keep their men sharp and entertain them, ordered friendly matches.

Though the soldiers burned with the desire to reclaim Carles, they could not move forward—the civilians had yet to evacuate. The generals hesitated, wary that any aggressive action could provoke the Estalis army into harming innocent lives.

While their leaders debated their next move, the soldiers gathered in the center of the camp for sparring sessions, seizing the chance to hone their skills.

Bener, eager to improve, sought out Kane. He had witnessed his prowess against the Zurans and wanted to learn the techniques that had made him so formidable—an unorthodox blend of swordplay, punches, and kicks.

Lara agreed, stepping in to instruct him. She introduced him to the principles of mixed martial arts, focusing on Judo and Muay Thai. Bener towered over her, broader and stronger in build, but as soon as their sparring began, it became evident that size alone would not guarantee victory. With seamless precision, Lara weaved through his defenses, utilizing rapid stand-up strikes, devastating sweeps, and unrelenting clinch work. Her fists, elbows, knees, and shins moved like lightning, preventing Bener from landing so much as a single strike.

By the time the bout ended, Bener lay on the ground, breathless and humbled.

The commotion had drawn the attention of Agilus, who emerged from his tent, curious about the spectacle. He arrived just in time to see Bener and Lara sprawled on the ground, panting from their exertion.

Agilus had already heard of the Eagle Team’s battle with the Zuran soldiers. He had listened as Bener and Aramis sang Kane’s praises, but skepticism lingered in his mind. He found it difficult to believe that a seemingly unimposing, short and slender soldier could be as skilled as they claimed.

Lara was taller than most females her age, but amidst the towering and bulky soldiers, she was just like a child.