“Ah…”
While there were fewer kobolds now, there were still around twenty of them. And they were carrying bows and hunting tools as they ran.
“Good! You! Alive!”
“Urak…you’re safe…”
The kobold boy was unharmed and had an expression of relief and joy.
“Aye. Your warning. We were able to, move quickly. Also, many humans, chased you…and so…”
Those humans had probably been lured by the experience points. Even though he was young, there was a huge difference between a dragon and a kobold.
“Fi. Glad you are safe.”
Said Chief Adara as he stepped forward. One of his eyes had been crushed. Still, he could stand on his feet and lead the group.
“Many humans, chased you. Had hardest time. But you, protected Yuneri. We are very grateful.”
“It was by chance. We got away because of Guto… Besides…I was wondering what we would do if the rest of you didn’t get here…”
“So…what happened, to Sheto?”
Came the expected question. Fi looked up at the sky.
“He was…captured by the Demon King army. Right now…they are running away from the Hero’s army.”
“I see…”
Adara was shocked by the answer. Fi’s jaw had also dropped when he read the message on his phone. ‘The Demon General’s army was mostly destroyed, Sheto and the general are fleeing.’
“And so…I’m sorry to say this just as you arrived…”
“I know. Fi. You want to, go and help Sheto. Yes?”
Adara said as if it was the most natural thing.
“Yes…I do. But it’s so far away. So I should gather food and…”
“Not to worry. We were, here before you, Fi. Can give you food and drink. Rest until tiredness gone. After that, we will leave.”
There was no hesitation in the kobold’s face. Only Yuneri, who did not understand, looked surprised while being carried by his mother.
“Th…thank you…”
In the end, that was all that Fi could say.
–
Poro was put into a narrow cell that had stone walls and one window.
The floor was bare dirt, and due to the mountain climate, it felt as cold as ice. He had been given a single blanket to sleep in. And the only food he received was water and a block of bread.
Poro stared at the iron bars in front of him and thought quietly.
‘What you’ve done is a clear violation of military regulations! You will be brought before a court-martial later, with both the general and strategist present! Prepare yourself!’
The captain was both furious and frightened over the matter, as his position was likely in danger as well.
Still, Poro showed no sign of being intimidated, and he eventually left him.
‘In other words…you believe that you did the right thing.’
The strategist was much more calm. When he saw a troubled expression on that handsome face, Poro could not help but feel a little guilt.
He did feel a sense of gratitude towards him after being let into the Hero’s army. Besides, unlike those leaders who just shouted and were otherwise worthless, the strategist actually acknowledged them.
‘Very well. Any further judgment on the matter is beyond my authority. Private Poro is hereby ordered into confinement starting today. The duration will be until Sir Hero delivers a final decision.’
The strategist actually did have the authority to punish him. So this was his way of showing mercy. That being said, Poro’s movements were restricted now. And the guards would watch him closely.
“I…I did nothing wrong.”