I met Elana, but she was captured by the Manticore boss.
The female Manticore gave a knowing glance to the other two and left.
“Let’s talk over here. Follow me.”
We were led by her to a deserted place.
“As you can see, I will cooperate with you in subduing the Giant Centipede.”
I was surprised that things were going so smoothly. Well, I’ll gratefully accept the good fortune. However, Nina looked displeased.
“Why are you helping us? There’s no benefit for you, is there? Or are you planning to eat the centipedes? If so, I won’t stop you…”
“Hmph, I see. You’re right to be suspicious. I’ll be upfront: I want to see that man dethroned.”
I see, given the situation, it’s understandable that she would want to step down as the leader of the flock.
“Hmm, and how does that relate to the centipedes? Ah, I get it. You’re going to have him fight the centipede, weaken him, and then have the next candidate step in, right?”
“Half correct. However, the next candidate is me.”
Wait, can a female be king? That would mean no harem.
“I will lead the flock. Don’t worry, even if it’s not him, there are males. They’re lurking around the flock, waiting for scraps. They’ll suffice.”
I never imagined a female would aim for the throne. Well, I suppose there are various circumstances within this race. She introduced herself as Tomoe.
“We will attack early tomorrow morning. Don’t worry, I have the females of the flock under my control. We’ll gather enough numbers.”
With that, Tomoe returned to her flock. I wanted to see Elana again, but it would be difficult now. So, we decided to return to the bandit group’s hideout.
When the bandit companions saw us, they rushed over in a panic. The bandit boss also came puffing from behind.
“Kia, where have you been? I told you not to go off on your own.”
“I’ve made arrangements with the Manticore. We will attack early tomorrow morning.”
She said only that and left. The boss scratched his head in exasperation.
“This is troublesome. Is this what they call the rebellious phase? Well, there’s no time, so let’s make a plan quickly.”
The companions followed the boss to the strategy meeting. But before that, I had to check on Lauren. After all, she was essential for this operation. Lauren was huddled in a dark corner of the tent, bowing her head.
“How are you feeling? The attack starts tomorrow morning.”
“…R, right. Then I, I need to get the luggage.”
She stood up unsteadily on wobbly legs.
“It’s okay if you don’t push yourself. I’ll rescue Pauline.”
“No, I’ll go. It’s, it’s my fault. I, I wasn’t looking that time.”
“But you can’t fight in that condition. I don’t want any more sacrifices!”
I understand she feels responsible. But the enemy won’t stop for her feelings. It would be a disaster if not only Pauline but also Lauren were harmed.
“No, I will go! I, I will definitely rescue her! I, I didn’t talk to Pauline much, and at first, I was worried about what to do. But Pauline was kind and cheered me up when I was feeling down. Thanks to her, I realized I could do it myself.”
“But Pauline is small and weak, so I have to protect her. It’s the first time I’ve wanted to protect someone. That’s why I’ll fight with you all.”
With that, she left the tent. I think Lauren has changed a lot. When I first met her, she was always complaining from the back. But now she’s saying she wants to fight for her companions. If so, I must respond to that sentiment.
The bandit group’s strategy meeting had already begun.
“Oh, you’re here, Hiroaki. What’s your plan? We can field about twenty fighters. What about the Manticore?”
“My apologies for being late, everyone. I don’t know the Manticore’s strength, but apparently, they’ve been driven off once before.”
Oh, a murmur went through the crowd. Twenty people, so it would be best to attack in groups of about five.
“How about using small groups to confuse the enemy? However, it’s unclear if our weapons will be effective.”
“Hmm, that’s the issue. That Giant Centipede has its body covered in hard armor. Magic would probably only be a scratch.”
“Then let’s leave the finishing blow to the Manticores. We’ll just hold it back.”
The bandit boss nodded greatly at my suggestion. Once the strategy meeting was over, we had to hurry with preparations.
