A Peaceful Land of the Orcs (1.4)
The difference in numbers is too huge.
She herself knew that.
“I will kill the Light Elves. I will kill as many as I can.”
“......”
She understood that it was reckless.
And after some hesitation, she said.
"I know this is a big ask after you've helped me, but... Could you please share some of your weapons and medicines? And take care of those who are badly injured or weak. I don't even have enough food to pay for it, so if you can just do that, I'll dedicate my life to you. I'll definitely come back here. After that, I don't mind if you eat me or treat me like a female."
"……"
Gustav rubbed his temples.
After a moment of contemplation, he swiftly weighed his options, made his decision, and spoke.
"If you’re that resolved, I want to propose an alternative."
"… What is it?"
"To rebuild for a future comeback, you and your kin should consider moving to my country."
"…… Ridiculous."
Dineluth looked utterly stunned.
Her expression seemed to say she couldn't believe such a thing was possible.
"I’ve heard that your kind, known for high magical abilities, can communicate with each other when close enough. Is that true?"
"… It's true. But I can't use it too much right now. The Light Elves might detect it."
"Indeed. That’s why I agree that you should return to the northern banks of the Sylvan River. There, you’ll gather as many comrades as you can, save those of other clans, and bring them across the river southward. Let me be clear: this will be harder than fighting. You must avoid detection by the Light Elves. Do you understand why?"
"—If the Light Elves learn of open support, it could mean war between Elfynd and your nation."
"Exactly, well said."
Gustav nodded approvingly, as if to say she had scored full marks.
"Thus, you must act swiftly, efficiently, yet in complete secrecy. You must persuade those around you and accomplish this escape."
"……"
"I will gather food, medicine, and hands along the southern banks. After initial treatment, I will welcome your people into my country."
"……"
Dineluth seemed to be struggling internally.
It wasn’t due to the imagined difficulties of carrying out the plan but rather because of the unexpected kindness extended by an Orc—a former battlefield foe who now offered her an unthinkable chance of salvation.
Dineluth voiced her straightforward question.
"… Why… would you go so far? It’s hard to believe."
"… I don’t blame you."
Gustav also responded openly. He knew from experience that, in moments like this, being straightforward was more effective than scheming or deception.
For one who governs, having a talent for intrigue and subtle maneuvers is essential, but that doesn’t mean it’s always the best approach.
"About 120 years ago, I fought against your people in the Rosalind Valley. I was just a soldier back then, young and inexperienced. I didn’t see the bigger picture, but…”
"What a coincidence. I was already the clan leader on that ancient battlefield."
"I see."
Dineluth seemed to be much older than Gustav, who was now 150 years old.
In Elven society, a clan leader not only fulfills the role of a village chief, town mayor, or city head in human terms but also serves as a commander of the clan’s forces in times of war. It’s said that leaders are chosen based on their mana, leadership, and respect from others, which usually means they’re of considerable age.
"I hold no grudge against your people. The clash between soldiers is part of life’s order. Besides, we attacked the Dwarven lands in search of food, and Elfynd sent forces to respond to our threat. The blame lies more on our side back then. But after our defeat in the Battle of Rosalind, do you know what happened?"
"… After that? We defeated the Orcs and returned home, but…"
"The Dark Elves did, yes."
"…?"
"Some Light Elves stayed in Rosalind. Then, they turned their swords on the Dwarven King, who ruled the southern bank of the Sylvan River."
"… That’s absurd. I heard the Dwarven Kingdom was destroyed by your people, taking advantage of the retreat."
"Ah, I see. So that’s the tale you were told. No wonder there’s been no trade. That’s a story concocted by the Elves. Already looking down on the Dwarves but feeling threatened by their metallurgical skills, the Elves seized the opportunity to destroy them."
"……"
"That’s when I saw firsthand the calculated ruthlessness of the Light Elves."
"……"
"Many demon races have been driven from the Belleriant region by the Elves. Giant Wolves, Kobolds, Great Eagles… They feared the Wolves’ fangs, envied the Kobolds’ business acumen, and couldn’t tolerate another intelligent race like the Eagles. They all now live in my country. I could even introduce you to them. My companion is a Giant Wolf, my steward a Kobold, and Dwarves support our industrial technology. The Great Eagles soar through our skies. I codified a national law forbidding the consumption of other races precisely to build a nation with them."
"……"
"And now, the next target of the Light Elves’ persecution… is your people. You’ve seen it clearly, haven’t you?"
"……"
What do you think about this chapter?
