All Chapters of The Forbidden Gaze: Chapter 71 - Chapter 80

Ava's POVThe next morning, I woke up feeling restless and unsure. I knew that I needed to talk to General Kaelen again, to understand what was happening between us and where it might lead. But as I emerged from my tent, I was greeted by the chaos of the camp, with warriors rushing to and fro and the sound of horses neighing in the distance.I stood there for a moment, feeling lost and uncertain. And then, I saw General Kaelen, standing on the outskirts of the camp, his eyes scanning the horizon. I felt a jolt of excitement, a sense of purpose that I couldn't ignore. I knew that I needed to talk to him, to understand what was happening between us and where it might lead.As I walked towards him, my heart pounding in my chest, I realized that I was stepping into unknown territory. But I was ready to take that step, to see where this journey might lead."General Kaelen," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.He turned to me, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in my expression. "Y

Rylan's eyes gleamed with malice as he began to spread the rumors amongst the warriors. He whispered in hushed tones, his words dripping with venom, as he insinuated that General Kaelen was no longer fit to lead."Have you noticed how distant the General has been lately?" he would say, leaning in close, his voice low and conspiratorial. "It's as if his physical strength has failed him, and he's become weak."The warriors would nod, their faces grave with concern, as Rylan continued to fuel the fire."I've seen it myself," another murmured. "He doesn't patrol the borders as often. He keeps to himself. It's... unsettling."Rylan smirked, seizing the moment. "It's all because of Ava, the servant. It's almost as if he's under some sort of spell," he whispered, shaking his head in mock sorrow. "The General's abstinence from the pleasures of the flesh in a bid to please Ava is a sign of his weakness, and it's compromising his ability to lead us.""You think he's lost his edge?" a younger wa

"You should," Kaelen said without hesitation. "Hold me accountable. Hold every man and woman accountable, as I have always done."Rylan smirked again but said nothing more, sensing that he had pushed enough for tonight.Still, Kaelen could see it in his eyes—the battle was far from over. Rylan would not let this matter die so easily.As the murmurs settled and the men began shifting uneasily, preparing to leave, Kaelen stayed rooted in place, watching, calculating.He knew this was only the beginning.The warriors gave him stiff nods of respect before dispersing, but there was a distance now, a fracture he could feel.As the meeting adjourned, the General knew that he had a long road ahead of him. He had to navigate the treacherous waters of the warriors' suspicions, to find a way to restore their faith in him. And he knew that he couldn't do it alone. He needed Ava's help, and he needed to find a way to protect her from the rumors that threatened to destroy them both.The General's e

Her fingers trembled as she picked it up and read the hurried words. She closed her eyes, clutching the paper to her chest. She didn't understand everything, but she knew one thing for certain: she had to be ready."Be careful," she whispered to herself, running her fingers over the shaky handwriting. "The rumors are spreading, and I fear for what's coming next..." Her voice was barely a breath in the stillness of the room.She turned, pressing her back against the door. "What are you trying to tell me, General?" she murmured, her mind racing with worry.There was a quiet knock again, softer this time. Ava stiffened. "Who's there?" she called cautiously."It's me," whispered Zylan from the other side. "I can't stay long. Just... trust the note."She opened the door a crack. "Zylan, wait! Please, tell me more. What's happening?"Zylan shook his head urgently. "I can't. Not now. Just... keep your head down. And trust him."Before she could ask another question, he was gone, swallowed up

Ava's POV The next morning, I stood before Mistress Elara, surrounded by the entertainers and servants, my heart racing with anxiety. I knew I was in trouble, and I had a feeling that Mistress Elara was behind the summons."Ava, we've heard rumors about you and the General," Mistress Elara said, her voice dripping with malice. "Care to explain what's going on between you two?"I tried to feign ignorance, but I knew it was futile. The entertainers present had witnessed the General's interactions with me, and they would likely testify against me."I don't know what you're talking about, Mistress," I said, trying to sound calm.Mistress Elara raised an eyebrow. "Don't play dumb, Ava. We all know what's going on. And as your superior, I have the right to know if you're engaging in any behavior that's unbecoming of a servant."I remained silent, knowing that anything I said would only incriminate me further. Mistress Elara's eyes narrowed, and she continued to berate me."Well, I take you