206 A Duel (2/2)

Shifting her gaze, Rin looked at the man beside the Emperor, and her eyes widened a bit. She studied him boldly. Standing beside the Emperor was a monstrous man with small black eyes, the left side of his face scarred. One ear and part of his cheek had been cleaved off, but a bit of pale white flesh remained. He was attired in heavy silver armor that covered his tall and stocky build.

A wisp of a cold glow flashed in the man's eyes upon meeting her gaze. There was no recognition in those fierce eyes. Rin blinked but displayed no further reaction.

So this would be the man watching her.

She had to admit, he was rather intimidating. But as usual, if he didn't interfere with her plans, she didn't care whether he watched her or not. Looking back at the Emperor, Rin just smiled without a word.

Again, surprised by her reaction, the Emperor frowned and let out a deep sigh.

”Then I will no longer take up your time. You may begin.��

Rin and the others bowed their heads towards the Emperor until he left. When she raised her head to look over the group of new recruits, she easily detected the stiff and unyielding expressions on their faces.

She wasn't surprised.

Rin's first impression upon arriving here was that these fellows didn't trust her, and many even felt hostile towards her. After all, they entered the army to grow stronger, not be used as test subjects. She knew she had to make a show of her strength and make her purpose clear.

With her hands behind her back, Rin looked at the troops silently.

”General Donghai,” She suddenly turned to the large man beside her.

General Donghai was silent as his frosty eyes stared at her.

”Do care to duel with me for a moment?”

The question was a sudden peal of thunder. Odd expressions appeared on the faces of General Donghai and the others. He paused, cocking one eyebrow and both ears at the young man's bold request. Those emerald eyes looked delicate and innocent; making the light in General Donghai's eyes darken.

The young man's nose was narrow, but it had an excellent shape and looked very delicate. His lips were plumper than most men, glossy and rose-tinted. His short hair framed a pair of bright round eyes that were brimming with vitality.

To come to the point, he looked weak.

General Donghai's mouth grew tight and hard before he grunted in acceptance.

Rin looked pleased and reached for a sword on the side of the wall, whereas, General Donghai reached to his hip, and stepped forward as he drew his sword.

Right at this moment, a sound of laughter that carried ridicule sounded out from the side. Rin had an emotionless expression as she gazed at the troops' teasing looks.

”I would advise those of you watching on the side to watch very carefully.”

The troops fell silent, but it was clear from their gazes that they viewed her words as a jest. Rin didn't mind and focused her attention back to General Donghai.

”Please don't hold back, general.” Rin smiled.

The man standing in front of her had his eyes flash with a bit of astonishment, curiosity seemed to spark in his gaze. Although it soon sank back into its stoic stillness, leaving no trace behind. He grunted another sound of agreement and prepared his position.

Rin clutched the sword in her hand, her grip strong and firm. The sword, an elegant and lethal weapon. Light and easy to hold. Shifting her gaze, she saw General Donghai place the sword in his left hand. Her sword was also in her left. This made things fair.

Their blades touched. And suddenly, the courtyard rang to the song of swords.