#Chapter 7 Trial by Combat

The guard captain bows his head to Prince Kaine, not daring to speak back, but the look in his eye betrays his continued skepticism. He is clearly unhappy at the prospect of taking orders from me. I hesitate for a moment before coming to a decision. I will challenge him to a duel. I am confident in my abilities as a warrior, and if I win he will have no choice but to let this go. I take a deep breath, before squaring my shoulders and facing the captain. My words come out in a rush before I lose my nerve,” Captain, we should settle this with a duel. The winner earns the right to head the security for the banquet.” The captain smirks as he considers my words. “You can’t be serious? Do you really want to get your ass kicked in front of everyone?” I lift my head, refusing to let him intimidate me, “Do you accept or not?” The captain smirks again, “Alright. I’ll try to end this quickly. I wouldn’t want to waste too much of everyone’s time.” I look at Prince Kaine, and he nods