C1 English Reading – Short Story & Vocabulary Quiz
General Kael believed firmly that his destiny was to conquer. His strategies were always explicit, leaving scarcely any room for doubt. He had known countless victories, each one adding to his prominent reputation. Yet, as he stood before the last unconquered city, a dubious feeling began to creep into his mind.
The city, unlike others, was not defended by huge walls or common armies. Its inhabitants, known for their peaceful ways, simply waited. Kael would usually expect a thunderous roar of defiance, but there was only silence all over him. He was used to battle, to the clash of steel, but this quiet resistance was unsettling.
His advisors urged him to attack immediately. They argued that any delay was bound to diminish his forces’ morale. But Kael waited, observing. He could hardly comprehend their lack of fear. He sent soldiers to scout their defenses, but they returned with vague reports of an ethereal calm.
Finally, Kael made an important decision. He would not attack. Instead, he would approach the city gates alone. His army was likely to question this, but his command was absolute. He walked forward, eager to understand. He would later confirm that it was not weakness, but an unshakeable faith in their way of life that had protected them. That day, Kael gave the order to turn his army away, choosing not to conquer the city. He realized that true strength wasn’t always about spreading fear, but about choosing to conserve peace. His primitive approach to warfare was forever altered.