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Chapter 25
Huling Na-update:
2025-04-06 23:46:53
Kaugnay na kabanata
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 26
Ava's POV As the days turned into weeks, my determination only grew. I worked tirelessly, my body honed from the hard labor. I walked with my head held high, my eyes flashing with defiance.And Kaelen, watching me from afar, couldn't help but feel a twinge of admiration. I was a worthy opponent, one who would not back down without a fight.The game was on, and I was ready to play.As the days passed, my presence in the camp became more pronounced. I was no longer just a servant, but a symbol of defiance against General Kaelen's authority. The other women looked up to me, whispering among themselves about my bravery.But Kaelen was not one to be swayed by sentiment. He saw my defiance as a challenge, a test of his dominance. And he was determined to prove his superiority.One day, as I was hauling a heavy water barrel across the camp, Kaelen appeared beside me. His eyes narrowed, his voice low and menacing."You're a stubborn one, aren't you?" he said, his breath hot against my ear.I
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-06The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 27
Ava's POV Kaelen's eyes gleamed with amusement. "Your job," he repeated. "I think you're more than just a servant, Ava."My heart skipped a beat. Mate? What was he talking about? She was just a servant, a worker. But Kaelen's eyes seemed to bore into my soul, as if he could see the very heart of me. And I felt a spark of recognition, a sense of connection that I couldn't ignore."What do you mean?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Kaelen's smile was slow, predatory. "Soon you'll understand" he said. My mind reeled as Kaelen's words hung in the air and I couldn't help but wonder what he really meant.I had been doing my best to avoid General Kaelen, but it seemed like the more I tried, the more our paths crossed. I would see him in the corridors, or in the mess hall, and every time, I would feel a flutter in my chest, I couldn't understand what it meant. I didn't know what it was about him that unsettled me so much. Maybe it was the way he looked at me, like he could see righ
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-07The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 28
Ava's POV But before I could react, Zylan appeared out of nowhere."What's going on here?" he asked, his voice firm.Rylan smirked. "Just having a little chat with the servant—Ava," he said.Zylan’s jaw tightened. "I don't think so," he said coldly. "Ava, come with me."I didn’t hesitate. I followed Zylan out of the room, leaving Rylan and his manipulations behind.As we walked, Zylan turned to me. "What was that all about?" he asked.I shook my head. "I don’t know," I muttered. "Rylan was just trying to manipulate me into admitting something. He twists everything I say."Zylan’s eyes narrowed. "He’s always been like that—thinks he can play with people’s minds and get away with it. But not this time."I glanced at him, surprised by the edge in his tone. "You’re really going to do something about it?""I don’t make empty promises, Ava," he said.I smiled, feeling a wave of gratitude. "Thanks. It means a lot."Zylan smiled back, but there was a seriousness in his gaze. "Anytime. Just..
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-07The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 29
Ava's POV I looked at him shocked. "What is it?" I asked.Zylan hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I know you're trying to avoid General Kaelen, but I think it's time we faced the music."I felt shocked and nervous . "What do you mean, master?" I asked.Zylan leaned in close. "I mean that we need to find out what's going on between you and General Kaelen," he said.I shook my head. "There's nothing going on between us," I said boldly, the tone of my voice a bit high, not minding whether or not I was heard by other warriors and entertainers close by. I was surprised to realise that even Zylan could think there was something going on between myself and the general. I thought he saw things from my lenses, but I guess I was wrong.Zylan raised an eyebrow. "Really?" he asked.I nodded. "Yes, really," I said.Zylan sighed. "Ava, I know you're not telling me the truth," he said.I felt a surge of defensiveness. "I am telling you the truth," I said.Zylan looked at me skeptically. "Fin
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-08The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 30
Kaelen POV 'Why did you stop me from leaving?'I set down my spoon and looked at her. 'Because I wasn’t ready for you to go.'Her cheeks flushed a light pink, and she looked down at her hands. 'I thought I had done something wrong.''No, Ava,' I said, my tone softer now. 'You did everything right.'She nodded slowly, brushing her fingers over the corner of her apron.Silence stretched again, but this time, it was less awkward, more settled.'Do you always eat alone?' she asked quietly.'Most days,' I admitted. 'It’s easier that way.''Doesn’t it get… lonely?'I paused, then gave her a long look. 'Sometimes. But I never had much choice.''Maybe today is different,' she said softly.Her words were simple, but they landed heavy in the space between us.'Maybe it is,' I agreed, voice low.She looked up then, meeting my eyes fully for the first time since she entered the tent. Something unspoken passed between us, fragile and new.'General Kaelen,' she began, her voice timid, 'you don’t h
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-08The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 31
Kaelen POV "You confuse me," she said at last."Good. You confuse me too."Her lips twitched, and for the first time, I saw the faintest hint of a smile. "You're not what I expected.""And what did you expect?""Someone cruel. Distant. Cold.""That’s what I’ve been. Until you walked in."I looked at her, really looked at her, and saw the beauty that lay beneath her reserved exterior. Her eyes sparkled in the dim light of my tent, and her skin glowed with a soft, golden light.As I stood there, looking into Ava's eyes, I felt a sense of uncertainty wash over me. I had never felt this way about a woman before. I have always been in control, always the one calling the shots.But with Ava, I felt like I was losing my grip. I felt like I was being pulled under by a force I couldn't resist.I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the feeling. I am a warrior, after all. I was in control.But as I looked into Ava's eyes, I knew that I am only kidding myself. I am not in control. I am at th
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-08The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 32
Ava's POVI stood before General Kaelen, my heart racing with anticipation and a hint of fear. His words had caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but wonder what he meant by asking me to stay the night."What could be the reason behind this instruction?" I thought to myself, my mind racing with possibilities. "Is he trying to punish me for bluntly disobeying him? Does he intend to have me by all means, even if it meant forcefully?"The thought sent a shiver down my spine. I had heard that Panja warriors were known for their honor and respect towards women. They would never force a woman to be with them against her will. But then, why was General Kaelen asking me to stay the night?I pushed aside my fears and decided to ask him politely, trying not to show any sign of weakness. "At least, can I return to my tent and tidy up a few of my unleft duties before returning by night?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.To my surprise, General Kaelen nodded, his expression unreadable
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-09The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 33
Ava's POV She raised her hand as if she was about to issue punishment on the spot, her mouth already curling into something cruel.But before she could speak, a calm voice interrupted. "Mistress Elara, I think there's been a misunderstanding."I turned around in surprise. Zylan stood a few feet away, his hands calmly clasped behind his back, his stance collected and firm.Mistress Elara narrowed her eyes. "Master Zylan? What does this have to do with you?"Zylan stepped forward, his tone firm but respectful. "Ava has not been derelict in her duties. She was summoned by General Kaelen himself. I was there when he gave her instructions."Mistress Elara blinked, clearly caught off guard. "Summoned? The general summoned her? Why wasn’t I informed?"Zylan’s expression remained composed. "Because the general deemed it unnecessary to go through you. His orders were direct. She is to return to him by dusk."For a moment, there was only silence. Then, whispers rippled around us—other servants
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-09
Pinakabagong kabanata
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 67
"Zylan, I appreciate your concern, but I think you're overreacting," I said, trying to maintain a calm tone.But Zylan's expression didn't change. His lips were pressed into a tight line, eyes steady on mine. "General, I've seen the way you and Ava interact. The way you look at each other, the awkward silences... it's all starting to add up. You need to address this before it's too late."I rubbed the back of my neck, feeling the weight of his words sink in deeper than I cared to admit. "Zylan, you're acting like we're already caught in the act. It's not like that.""Then what is it, sir?" he asked, lowering his voice. "Because from where I'm standing, it looks like you're falling for her. And everyone’s beginning to see it."I hesitated, then exhaled sharply. "It’s complicated."Zylan didn’t move, didn’t blink. "Complicated doesn't mean invisible, General. Secrets never stay buried around here."I felt a surge of frustration, knowing that Zylan was right. I was trying to ignore the p
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 66
I ran a hand through my hair, frustrated at how easily she had gotten under my skin. How did she manage to unravel parts of me I had locked away for years? How did a servant girl become the one thing I couldn’t ignore?But for now, I pushed those thoughts aside, and focused on the present moment. I was drawn to Ava, and I couldn't deny it.I knew that I had to be careful, that I had to keep my feelings hidden. But as I looked at Ava, I couldn't help but feel like I was taking a chance on something more. Something that could change everything.Only time would tell, but one thing was for sure: I was in uncharted territory, and I was excited to see where this journey would take me. I feel like I am taking a chance on something more. Something that could change everything._______________I stood at the edge of the training grounds, observing the warriors as they honed their skills. The sun beat down on us, casting a warm glow over the scene. But despite the pleasant weather, I couldn't s
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 65
I gave a faint, rueful smile. “Because they let me feel without breaking.”She shifted slightly on the wooden chair, her fingers smoothing the fabric of her skirt. “Esther waited through the first banquet. Held her breath through the second. All the while, knowing the fate of her people hung in the air.”“Still, she chose patience,” I murmured. “That’s a kind of strength I don’t have.”“Maybe you do,” Ava said gently. “You just haven’t needed to use it that way.”I tilted my head. “Is that what you think? That I’m stronger than I look?”“No,” she said with a slight smile. “I think you’re stronger than you believe.”I felt something shift inside me again—slow, careful, like the click of a hidden lock.“And what about you?” I asked. “Where does your strength come from?”She shrugged, almost shy. “From silence, I think. From watching when no one notices. From listening, even when my heart’s racing.”“That’s not weakness,” I said. “That’s fire hidden in still water.”Her laugh was quiet,
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 64
As Ava continued to speak, I found myself getting lost in her words. I was transported to a different time and place, a place where I could be myself, without the weight of my duties as a Panja warrior.But as the moments passed, I knew that I had to snap back to reality. I couldn't let my feelings get the better of me, not yet. I had to keep my cool, and pretend like everything was normal.But as I looked at Ava, I knew that it was going to be hard. She had awakened something inside me, something that I couldn't ignore. And I knew that I would have to confront it, sooner or later.“So… what happened next?” I asked, clearing my throat, trying to sound composed.Ava smiled gently, her hands folded neatly in her lap. “The king extended his scepter to Esther, sparing her life. She invited him and Haman to a banquet… not once, but twice.”“Twice?” I leaned forward slightly. “Why delay the request?”She tilted her head thoughtfully. “Perhaps she wanted to create suspense. Or maybe she need
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 63
General Kaelen's POV "Kaelen, what's come over you?" I asked myself, pacing slowly near the center table. "Are you trying to say you want to woo a servant?" The words felt strange in my mouth, but the truth was unavoidable. I knew deep inside—I was already in the process of wooing her. And if my instincts were right, she felt something too. There was a softness in her gaze lately, a warmth that wasn't always there.I checked the time. Just a few minutes before Ava was due to arrive and begin her usual cleaning. But tonight, I had other plans. I straightened the scattered tools on the table, brushed the dust from the nearby chair, and prepared myself—not just for her work, but for her presence.My heart thudded with anticipation.When the door creaked open, Ava stepped in, eyes dropping respectfully as always. Her hair was pulled back, a few strands slipping free around her cheeks. I cleared my throat, suddenly tense."Put the tools away," I ordered, softer than usual. "Then come and
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 62
General Kaelen's POV I woke up from my bed quite early, feeling a sense of restlessness that I couldn't shake off. My mind kept drifting towards Ava, and I couldn't explain the feelings that were stirring inside me. As a Panja warrior, I was trained to be emotionally numb, incapable of joy or excitement – detached from the world around me. But Ava had somehow managed to break through that barrier, and I couldn't help but feel drawn to her.I got out of bed and instead of getting ready for the day, I began pacing around my quarters, my mind racing with thoughts of Ava. I couldn't understand why I felt this way, but I knew that I couldn't ignore it. It was both exhilarating and terrifying. I was used to being in control, but when it came to Ava, I felt like I was losing my grip.I stopped near the window, the early light casting faint shadows on the stone floor. “Why her?” I murmured to myself, rubbing the back of my neck. “Why now?”The silence in the room was deafening, pressing agai
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 61
Ava's POV But as I worked on the torn dresses, my mind kept wandering back to General Kaelen. I couldn't help but wonder what would happen if we were discovered. Would we be punished? Would we be able to escape?"I shouldn’t even be thinking about him," I muttered to myself, threading the needle with trembling fingers. "This is madness."Across the room, one of the other girls glanced at me, raising a brow."Did you say something, Ava?"Startled, I shook my head quickly. "No. Just talking to the fabric," I said with a strained laugh.She snorted. "You better not let Mistress Elara catch you mumbling to yourself. She’s already on edge today."As if on cue, I felt a sharp gaze prick the back of my neck. I didn’t have to turn to know it was her. Mistress Elara.I focused harder, stitching faster, but my hands were clumsy. The thread snapped."Damn it," I whispered."Language," the mistress's voice rang out sharply across the room.My heart skipped. "Sorry, Mistress," I said without look
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 60
The Mistress called everyone's attention back to the lesson, her voice firm and commanding."Alright, enough chatter," she snapped, her sharp tone slicing through the room. "You all seem to be enjoying yourselves a bit too much. But remember this—" she raised a finger, her eyes cold and steady, "The Masters are not your companions. They are not your friends. They are not here to save you."A heavy silence fell across the room."They will give you immense pleasure," she continued with a dark smile curling on her lips, "but just as easily, they will give you pain. Never forget your place."There were a few nervous gulps around the room. I kept my head down, trying to avoid her gaze, but I could feel the heat of her stare settling near me.Someone from the back raised a hand hesitantly. "But what if a Master—""I don’t care what you think a Master feels!" Mistress Elara snapped, cutting the girl off mid-sentence. Her voice echoed across the room. “I don’t care if he smiles at you, speaks
The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 59
As the day went on, I caught glimpses of the general from afar. He was busy with his duties, but every now and then, our eyes would meet, and I could feel the tension between us.It was like a spark of electricity had been lit, and it was only a matter of time before it ignited into something more.I knew that I had to be careful, that I had to keep my feelings hidden, at least for now. But I couldn't help the way I felt, and I couldn't help but wonder what might happen if the general and I were to act on our feelings.The possibilities were endless, and I was afraid to think what the future might hold for us if we chose to act on it. But for now, I had to keep my feelings hidden and continue with my duties as if nothing was out of the ordinary.It was a delicate balancing act, but I was determined to see it through. I was determined to keep my feelings hidden, while at the same time, exploring the possibilities of what could be.As the day continued, I couldn't help but feel a sense
