Elana, exhausted, admitted defeat.
Admit defeat? Did Elana just say that? Was this part of the plan? The Amazons were also confused.
“What do you mean, you lost? What is this? Those Dog with Human Heads lost. You’re going back on the terms of our duel.”
The Werewolf Woman’s words were echoed by other Amazons. My companions also rushed over. Sizing up the situation, they drew their weapons smoothly. Loop, taken aback by Elana’s unexpected words, seemed to freeze and was unable to say anything.
“That’s why I said I lost. Even if his companions hadn’t joined in, I’m at my limit. I can’t even stand up. If he wanted to finish me off, he could have done it with just one person.”
Well, that’s true… Like me, everyone had faces that didn’t understand.
“If you want to kill me, go ahead. But it has to be you, not your subordinates. Hurry, or my stamina will recover.”
The subordinates’ gazes all focused on Loop. Everyone seemed to be waiting for their Boss’s decision. Forced to make a decision, he looked around, visibly agitated.
“R-right. I win. You fought well, you pushed me this far.”
“What?! Shut your annoying mouth! Hey, let’s take care of those damn dogs.”
The Werewolf Woman expressed her anger at Loop’s arrogant attitude.
“Besides, what’s this about a serious match with a swarm? If I hadn’t intervened, you would have let your subordinates do it by now, right? And originally…”
“Don’t say any more, or the meaning of this battle will be lost.”
Elana stopped her, and she fell silent.
“I was the one who was cowardly, challenging you without telling you I would use magic. If it were a truly serious match, that’s what we should have done, right?”
Loop looked embarrassed at this. It seemed like the handicap had been on his side after all. Completely having lost his fighting spirit, he was flustered, unsure of what to do.
“Are, are you guys making fun of me? Huh?! Is that so? You too?!”
He yelled in frustration at the leader next to him. The man shook his head, saying no.
“Wait, no, I acknowledged you. You have the strength and capacity to lead everyone. That’s why, once more, please stop and think. The lives of many depend on your orders.”
Loop closed his mouth and listened to Elana’s words.
“Just now, there was a possibility that someone could have been caught in my attack. A life once lost can never be brought back. Your subordinates are prepared to give their lives for you. Do you understand how fortunate that is, and how heavy that responsibility is?”
“I…”
He looked around at the companions surrounding him.
“My race doesn’t have customs like yours. We have bonds and hierarchies as companions, but we basically live as individuals. I don’t quite understand these feelings, but you should accept that trust with a big heart. Don’t forget, this flock includes small children and old people. They too will lay down their lives for you.”
At these words, old people hiding in the shadows of the trees peeked out. Surely there were those who disagreed with his actions.
“Right. You’re right. If my companions were killed, I should get revenge. That’s what I thought. But even if I get revenge, those who are gone won’t return. I need more time to think. I’m sorry, Elana. If you’d like, would you give me the chance to become friends?”
“Eh? Friends? Well, I guess I can start there.”
