Chapter 11.3

His speech then turned to Nyla and her accomplishments both on the battlefield and in the classroom. He motioned her forward, and Nyla realized that the crowd was silent again, engaged in his tales once more.

            I’m the main focus. I can turn the tide of their opinion.

            Without thinking, Nyla gestured for Edmond to stand aside so she could stand at the podium. He hesitated for only a moment before announcing, “And now I give Nyla the opportunity to speak on my behalf.” His hard eyes dug into the back of her skull.

            He’s scared of what I’m about to say, but he knows they aren’t buying his speech either.

            “First,” Nyla said, h