He could have ignored it; fighting to prove who was strongest was pointless. Yet he gave her a steady look.
It was not an ordinary challenge, but one of pride. Queen Anastasya had traveled all the way from the capital to a remote southern village just to beg Gideon, and Hannah needed to know how strong the man was to deserve her mother's attention.
"Are you sure?" Gideon asked, reassuring Hannah.
SLING!
Without hesitation, Hannah drew her sword from its scabbard and held it in her hand. The blade shone, and the hilt was adorned with crystal rose ornaments. It was a specially forged sword, crafted with careful detail.
"Of course. Are you afraid?" Hannah asked, intimidating.
"That's a fine sword."
"Show me your weapon," Hannah demanded.
Gideon smiled, raising both hands and folding them in front of his chest, clearly showing he would fight empty handed, without armor, without a shield, and without a sword.
