From my vantage point on the elevated judges‘ platform, the sprawling landscape of the competition grounds stretches out beneath me–an intricate patchwork of forests, rocky terrain, and open clearings.
The early morning mist has finally dissipated, revealing a pristine battlefield that gleams under the golden sunlight. Around me, murmurs of anticipation ripple through the assembled crowd, the collective tension humming in the air.
I look toward Windhowl’s designated starting point, and my heart tightens uncomfortably as I watch Siena carefully position her warriors.
A quick glance at their ranks confirms what I already know–they’re severely disadvantaged. Her team consists mostly of wounded veterans, warriors who bear scars from past battles, carrying injuries that would limit even the strongest among us
My chest aches faintly at the sight, a strange protectiveness stirring within me, though I stubbornly refuse to acknowledge its significance.
Will she be defeated? Humiliated in front of all the packs?
The other packs, filled with younger, stronger warriors, assemble confidently nearby, exchanging snug grins and confident banter.
My woll bristles slightly at their arrogance, a quiet growl rumbling deep in my chest. “They underestimate Siena, underestimate her warriors.”
My fingers clench involuntarily against the railing, uncase prickling along the back
The horn sounds sharply, signaling the simulation’s official start
k of my n neck.
Packs surge forward instantly, charging headfirst into aggressive maneuvers, eager to demonstrate their dominance. My pulse quickens instinctively, adrenaline surging through my veins as I assess their strategies critically.
To my surprise, instead of matching aggression with aggression, Siena signals her warriors differently. They move swiftly, silently, into carefully planned positions–taking advantage of terrain and creating an elaborate, highly coordinated defensive network.
I am curious and confused as I watch her movements closely.
This isn’t the Siena I thought I knew–timid, politically naive, inexperienced in warfare. Her commands are crisp, confident, and precise.
She captivates all.
“Brilliant,” I murmur unconsciously, admiration slipping unbidden from my lips. The word startles even me, revealing a respect I hadn’t realized I felt.
Horace preens proudly, rumbling with satisfaction, whispering insistently-“our mate is clever, strong.”
I silence him quickly, discomforted by the unexpected warmth flooding through my chest,
Beside me, Lila shifts impatiently, her delicate features twisted into a displeased frown. “They’re just hiding,” she scoffs dismissively, her voice dripping disdain. “Cowards.”
Her words grate sharply against my nerves, igniting an unexpected irritation deep inside me. Before I can stop myself, my voice snaps with icy correction, sharper than intended. “No,” I retort forcefully, startling Lila into wide–eyed silence. They’re
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Chapter 36
conserving resources while maximizing their defensive potential. It’s actually genius.”
Lila recoils slightly, clearly taken aback by my harshness.
Guilt pricks Faintly at my conscience, but I brush it aside stubbornly, still fixated on Siena’s strategic maneuvers.
My heart pounds faster, unwilling admiration warming my veins.
How had I missed this side of her?
Had she always been this capable, this strategic, and I’d simply refused to see it?
Horace growls softly, accusingly. “You underestimated our mate. You judged her wrongly
I grit my teeth harshly, refusing to entertain the accusation, yet doubt begins to creep insidiously into my thoughts.
Siena’s warriors move with impressive precision, each veteran holding their position, carefully guarding weak points and bottlenecking opponents into a strategic disadvantage. Her strategy is flawless, intricate, and undeniably effective.
Time passes swiftly, tension building steadily as pack after pack struggles against Windhowl’s patient defense.
Frustration grows visibly among Siena’s opponents, their aggressive attacks repeatedly thwarted by her clever tactics.
My pulse quickens further, fascination growing into genuine respect.
When the horn finally sounds again, signaling the simulation’s end, my heart surges with genuine surprise and admiration Windhowl stands victorious, its ranks remarkably intact compared to the severe losses suffered by its stronger rivals.
Siena’s warriors cheer triumphantly, pride radiating from their faces. My chest tightens painfully, longing and regret mingling sharply.
Why did I dismiss her? How could I not have seen it?
