The words rang in Chen Feng's ears like a harsh noise, yet he remained calm, fully aware that the news had already spread throughout the Eagle Wing Guard. To change the current situation, mere words would be useless; he needed to prove himself with actions.
Just as Chen Feng was about to speak, a hurried sound of footsteps interrupted the commotion. Ma Xingyu, Wei Jing, and other members of the Qian Ren Jiang rushed in with their trusted soldiers, their arrival adding a subtle tension to the previously relaxed atmosphere.
"Xiao Wei Da Ren, we apologize for our tardiness," Ma Xingyu said politely on the surface, but a hint of provocation flickered in his eyes.
Chen Feng smiled faintly, scanning the crowd. His voice was not loud but resonated clearly in everyone's ears: "Being late for assembly—where is the military discipline? Since this is your first time, I will let it slide today. I hope you all will strictly adhere to military regulations in the future and not repeat this mistake."
As soon as he finished speaking, silence fell over the crowd. The soldiers exchanged glances, interpreting this behavior as a sign of retreat. Meanwhile, the members of Qian Ren Jiang exchanged knowing looks, each with their own calculations in mind. Their silent communication seemed to say: "See? I told you he was just a fool!"
Then Chen Feng began to exercise his authority as Captain, preparing to say some formal words to the soldiers. However, at that moment, a sudden uproar erupted from the ranks again. The people below seemed to disregard him entirely; while he spoke above, they continued their chatter below.
Chen Feng's eyes brightened at this sight. He realized this was the opportunity that Ancestor had mentioned—an opening for him to assert himself!
He scanned the crowd and finally fixed his gaze on the loudest soldier in the ranks. His voice remained calm but carried an undeniable authority. "You, step forward."
The soldier looked taken aback for a moment but then smirked provocatively and strode confidently to the front, seemingly eager to show this newcomer Captain who was boss.
"Xiao Wei Da Ren, what do you want?" The soldier's attitude was defiantly casual.
Chen Feng did not react immediately; instead, he spoke slowly and clearly: "Military discipline is strict. When assembling, one should maintain silence and order. Yet you chose to make noise in formation and disregard military regulations. What punishment do you think you deserve?"
At these words, the soldier's expression shifted slightly; he hadn't expected this Captain to be so direct. However, after glancing at his fellow Qian Ren Jiang members, he boldly replied: "We are used to bloodshed; having a rookie like you as our general won’t make our enemies spare us just because you're inexperienced. I refuse to accept you!"
Chen Feng smiled at this defiance. He didn't give him much time to react before turning his attention back to the members of Qian Ren Jiang with a tone that held a hint of severity.
As for you, as members of the Qian Ren Jiang, shouldn't you feel responsible for the lax discipline among your subordinates? This scene only reinforced the impression that he was just a powerless fool.
Ma Xingyu and Wei Jing exchanged glances, surprised by Chen Feng's direct accusation, almost laughing out loud.
Seeing their reactions, Chen Feng's tone grew even harsher. "I know you may feel dissatisfied, but military discipline is as solid as a mountain and should not be taken lightly. I am giving you a chance to manage your subordinates properly; otherwise, I will find someone capable to replace you."
As soon as these words were spoken, the atmosphere in the room became tense. The soldiers looked at each other, having never encountered such a commanding presence from Ren Xiaowei before. However, since things had escalated to this point, everyone involved steeled themselves.
They either had to push this incompetent Captain out or risk being transferred to another battalion. With a useless leader remaining here would be tantamount to suicide; they might as well go clean toilets instead.
With this mindset, many stepped forward. "A leader without strength cannot be our Eagle Wing Guard's Captain!"
"That's right! We don't recognize you as our Captain! If you have something to say, let's see who’s better; if not, just get lost!"
At that moment, Ma Xingyu and Wei Jing, who had remained silent until now, burst into laughter but quickly returned to their silence.
Faced with the soldiers' provocation and doubt, Chen Feng couldn't help but laugh internally. "Alright, since you are not convinced, I will give you an opportunity." His voice was not loud but carried an undeniable authority. "Although I don't know where you got your information from or what rumors you've heard, since you believe my abilities are lacking, let's settle this through competition."
However, Chen Feng's tone shifted again, becoming more severe. "Before we begin the challenge, I want all of you to remember one thing: military discipline is paramount and should not be taken lightly. If I win, be prepared for punishment!"
Once he finished speaking, the area fell silent again. The soldiers exchanged glances in disbelief that this Captain had so decisively accepted their challenge.
Ma Xingyu and Wei Jing's smiles faded slightly, but recalling the news they had heard from the capital eased their minds; they dismissed it as the opponent's last struggle.
Chen Feng scanned the crowd; every soldier could feel the pressure emanating from his gaze. The one who had instigated the trouble stepped forward with sword and shield and declared loudly, "If General's strength exceeds the rumors, then it's my fault for believing in such gossip and deserving of punishment!"
The challenge began. Chen Feng stood at the foot of the platform with a spear in hand while facing a soldier wielding a sword and shield—an opponent merely at Houtian Shizhong level. Just days ago, Chen Feng had dispatched several foes of this caliber with ease.
With just a single encounter, the terrifying spiritual power shattered the shield into dust! This was at least at the Innate level!
The crowd below erupted in chaos. Who spread this rumor? It was over; they would surely face repercussions in the future!
The four members of Qian Ren Jiang exchanged glances, their astonishment evident in their eyes. But with the arrow on the string, they had no choice but to shoot.
Each of the second and third warriors was defeated by Chen Feng with lightning speed! The soldiers watching from the sidelines exchanged looks, beginning to realize that this Captain's strength far exceeded their expectations.
Ma Xingyu and Wei Jing's expressions grew serious; it was astonishing that he had reached the Innate level in just two months, and at such a stable level!
Finally, when the last warrior fell to Chen Feng, thunderous applause and cheers erupted throughout the arena.
Standing on the platform, Chen Feng scanned the crowd, his voice ringing out once more: "Is there anyone else who dares to challenge me? Step forward!"
This time, no one dared to step up. The soldiers were completely convinced of Chen Feng's strength. Most began to believe that while this Captain might not lead them to victory every time, he certainly possessed the capability to guide them.
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