The Rise of a Master: It Starts With Rejection
Billionaire With Husband 347

Chapter 347

Jaden's sudden proposal caught Xena completely off guard. In all honesty, the man kneeling before her checked all the boxes of her ideal partner-handsome, kind, accomplished, and backed by the prestigious Crimson Sage Sect.

Sadly, the timing was not right. Xena explained gently, "Jaden, you know my grandpa asked me to date Felix for a month. There's still about two weeks left. I hope you understand."

Jaden stood up, looking somewhat embarrassed. "I'm sorry. I completely forgot about that.

The euphoria from his breakthrough had made him impulsive, momentarily forgetting about Felix, whom he considered insignificant. Nonetheless, he noticed the look in Xena's eyes and felt he still had a chance, especially considering Xena's promotion to Warlady would happen much later.

Shortly after Jaden left, the doorbell rang. Xena was a little annoyed, wondering how everyone seemed to know her whereabouts so easily. Then again, it could be Felix.

But as soon as she saw who it was, she went straight to greeting the guest.

"Leia, what brings you here?" Standing at the door was Hector's deputy, Leia, with whom she had always maintained a good relationship.

"Lord Hector sent me. There are some matters we need to discuss in person," Leia replied.

Since Hector sent Leia, it had to be important. Thus, Xena invited her inside and took her seriously. "Sure. Come on in."

Once settled in the living room, Leia, known for her straightforwardness, got right to the point. "The Wolfie troops aren't just any military unit-they're meant for a Warlord. While your promotion to Warlady is certain, wouldn't you prefer real authority rather than just a title?" Xena frowned. "Are you suggesting there are rebels within the Wolfie troops?"

Leia shook her head. "It's not quite that simple. These troops from headquarters aren't truly disloyal. The difference lies in how they follow orders. Do they think strategically about accomplishing the mission, or do they just go through the motions?

"For example, if you ask one to head east, do they just step in that direction and stop after one step, or think ahead on how best to get there? Neither approach technically disobeys orders, but which would you prefer?"

The answer was obvious to Xena. "While both follow orders, I'd prefer those who think strategically." After all, every leader would want capable, intelligent subordinates rather than mindless followers.

1/2

Chapter 347

"Exactly. The key figure here is Alistair Hill, the commander. He's an exceptional officer with admiral potential, but he'll likely resist your leadership. He'll follow orders but without initiative or strategic thinking."

The prospect of having someone of admiral caliber under her command excited Xena. After all, such talent was rare, especially when not already claimed by others. "Please, Leia, I need your advice. This is crucial for me." Leia raised two fingers and explained, "There are only two ways to earn Alistair's genuine respect. First, overwhelm him with superior strength, but that's impossible since he's at Martial God level."

That was the plain truth. Xena herself was only nearing Martial King and was still far from Jaden's level, let alone Alistair's.