32: Rumours

Chapter 32: Rumours

**En Route to Malory Village:**

The journey to Malory Village was long and winding, the landscape dotted with sprawling fields and distant hills. Division 10 rode steadily, each knight focused on the mission ahead, but murmurs about Synoh's newfound role as second in command began to ripple through the group.

**Knight 1:** (whispering to Knight 2) Did you hear? Synoh's been made the temporary second in command.

**Knight 2:** (raising an eyebrow) Really? That's quick. He's talented and all, but he's barely finished one mission.

**Knight 3:** (nodding) Yeah, seems a bit unfair, doesn't it? There are veterans among us who've been here for years. Likes Dred, Aloy and Meth. The strongest after vice Captain Ursa.

The knights exchanged knowing glances, their expressions a mix of surprise and skepticism. Synoh had proven himself capable during their previous mission, but some couldn't shake the feeling that his promotion was premature.

As they rode, they noticed Synoh and Captain Elara conversing ahead, their heads bent close together in discussion. The sight didn't go unnoticed among the knights, sparking whispers and speculation.

**Knight 4:** (leaning closer to Knight 3) Look at them. Synoh and Captain Elara seem pretty chummy, don't they?

**Knight 3:** (smirking) Yeah, I've seen them talking a lot lately. Maybe there's more to it than just strategy.

**Knight 1:** (nodding knowingly) I heard some of the newer recruits saying they think they're dating. Captain Elara does have a thing for younger men, they say.

The gossip spread quietly among the knights, fueled by curiosity and idle chatter during the journey. Some chuckled at the idea, while others exchanged skeptical glances. Nonetheless, the atmosphere remained professional, each knight focused on the upcoming tasks despite the rumors swirling around them.

**Knight 2:** (sighing) Well, whether there's truth to it or not, let's focus on our mission. We've got a village to help, and that's what matters.

**Knight 3:** (nodding in agreement) You're right. Let's leave the gossip to others. We've got more important things to worry about.

The conversation shifted back to preparations for their arrival at Malory Village, the knights determined to prove their worth through their actions rather than speculations about their leaders.

**Arrival at Malory Village:**

The journey finally brought Division 10 to Malory Village, a small settlement nestled amidst rolling hills and patchwork fields. As they dismounted and began to settle in, Captain Elara wasted no time in seeking out the village chief to discuss their mission objectives, leaving Synoh temporarily in charge of Division 10.

**Captain Elara:** (addressing Synoh) Synoh, I'll go speak with the village chief. Keep Division 10 organized and ready. We'll reconvene shortly.

Synoh nodded in acknowledgment, his expression focused and determined as he watched Captain Elara stride towards the village center. Meanwhile, among the knights of Division 10, whispers and murmurs about Synoh's rapport with Captain Elara continued to simmer.

**Knight 1:** (chuckling) So, Synoh, how did you manage to get so cozy with Captain Elara? Did you charm her with your sword skills?

**Knight 2:** (grinning) Yeah, we heard you've been whispering sweet strategies into her ear.

**Synoh:** (calmly) My focus is on the mission. Captain Elara and I share a professional relationship, nothing more.

**Knight 3:** (teasingly) Oh, come on, Synoh. We've seen the way she looks at you. You're her favorite, aren't you?

The knights laughed, their banter light-hearted yet edged with underlying curiosity. Synoh remained composed, refusing to be drawn into their provocations.

**Synoh:** (seriously) Our duty is to support Captain Elara and ensure the safety of this village. Let's not forget that.

Before the conversation could continue, Captain Elara returned, her presence commanding attention as she addressed Division 10.

**Captain Elara:** (authoritative) Division 10, prepare to scout the surrounding areas of the village. We need to assess any potential threats and ensure the villagers' safety.

The knights of Division 10 nodded in affirmation, their focus shifting to the tasks at hand as they followed Captain Elara's lead. Together, they set up a temporary base on the outskirts of Malory Village, organizing patrols and establishing communication channels.

**Captain Elara:** (addressing the division) Here's the plan. We'll divide into teams and cover the north, south, east, and west sectors. Report back any sightings or concerns immediately.

As Captain Elara outlined the strategy, Synoh observed the division's preparations with a sense of responsibility and determination. Despite the earlier jests, he knew the importance of their mission and the need for unity among the knights under his command.

**Synoh:** (quietly to himself) We can do this. We must protect this village, no matter what.

With their roles clear and the plan in motion, Division 10 embarked on their reconnaissance mission, each knight ready to prove their worth in the face of the challenges ahead.