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Chapter 30
Terakhir Diperbarui:
2025-04-08 20:10:46
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The 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
Terakhir Diperbarui : 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
Terakhir Diperbarui : 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
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-09The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 34
Ava's POV "Welcome, Ava," he said, his voice low and husky. "I see you're punctual."I nodded, trying to keep my cool. "I try to be," I replied, my voice steady.General Kaelen smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I like that about you, Ava. You're a woman of your word."I forced myself to smile lightly, though my heart thumped in my chest like a war drum. Compliments from him always came unexpectedly, and they always left me unsettled."I believe in doing what's expected of me, sir," I said carefully."You believe in duty. That's admirable. Rare, even." He leaned forward slightly. "But tell me… do you always follow orders, or just the ones you agree with?"There was a teasing lilt in his tone, but I knew better than to laugh."Depends on who's giving the order," I replied boldly, then instantly regretted how it sounded.His eyebrows lifted, amused. "Is that so?""I meant… I follow orders when they’re fair," I added quickly. "When they serve a purpose.""And do you think stand
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-09The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 35
But I suppressed the urge, keeping my eyes locked on his as he stared back at me. The heat between us was becoming intense, beads of sweat trickling down my face and into my eyes. A strand of my hair slipped out of its band, and I felt a flutter in my chest.There wasn't any gap anymore between his chest and mine, his body smothering mine. It felt almost like I was bare-skinned too.He lifted up a finger, gently brushing the stray hair out of my face. Time seemed to stand still as he touched me, his eyes never leaving mine.And then, just as suddenly as he had appeared, he walked away. I let out a deep sigh of relief, my body feeling like it had been released from a spell.As I watched him walk away, I couldn't help but wonder what had just happened. Had he been testing me? Or was there something more to it?I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. I had no idea what General Kaelen's intentions were, but I was determined to stay one step ahead of him.Little did I know, t
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-10The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 36
Ava's POVI woke up feeling a sense of unease, like something was off. And then I remembered the message that Zylan had delivered from General Kaelen. I wasn't to come in today, or any other day, unless he sent for me. At first, I thought I would be relieved. Finally, I would be free from General Kaelen's intense gaze, from the way he seemed to see right through me. But as I went about my morning routine, I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease. It wasn't excitement that I felt, or even relief. It was something else, something that I couldn't quite put my finger on. I tried to push the feeling aside and focus on my duties. I had been assigned to help with the preparations for the upcoming festival, and I was determined to make sure that everything was perfect. But as I made my way to the festival grounds, I was ambushed by a group of entertainers. They were a group of women who performed for the warriors, singing and dancing for their entertainment. They had never been particu
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-10The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 37
Ava's POV "You know, I'm getting a little tired of your insults," I said, my voice firm. "Maybe it's time for you to focus on your own jobs, instead of trying to bring me down."The entertainers gasped in shock, and for a moment, they were silent. But then, one of them stepped forward, her eyes narrowing."Oh, we're shaking in our boots," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "The little servant girl thinks she's tough."Another chimed in, laughing. "She’s probably hoping Kaelen will notice her if she pretends to grow a backbone.""Maybe she thinks standing up to us will get her a promotion," another one said, flicking her long braid over her shoulder.I clenched my fists. "I'm not trying to impress anyone. I just want to be treated with respect—something you all clearly struggle with."They snickered, leaning into each other as if I'd said something hilarious."You hear that? She wants respect," the first one mocked, mimicking my voice."Should we bow before you, Princess Ava?"
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-10The Forbidden Gaze Chapter 38
Ava's POV As I arrived at the festival grounds, I saw Zylan standing near the entrance. He caught my eye and nodded, and I felt a sense of relief wash over me. Maybe he could provide some answers, I thought. I made my way over to him, trying to act casual despite the turmoil of emotions inside me. "Master," I said, trying to sound calm. "Can I talk to you for a minute?" He nodded and followed me to a quiet corner of the grounds. "What's going on?" he asked, his eyes scanning my face. "Please sir, do you know what the General's reason is for not needing me anymore?" I asked, uncertain whether or not Zylan was going to give me a response. And like I suspected, Zylan didn't respond to me, but rather kept me quiet. After waiting for what seemed to be like hours to me, I decided to return back to my tent and continue with my reading. "Why do you bother to know his reasons for not needing you anymore? Isn't that what you have always wished for?" Zylan suddenly questioned. His voice
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-04-11
Bab terbaru
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
