Chapter 4 (2/2)
The ‘valiant’ nature of Orcs was already well known amongst the defensive troops of Potellan. The heroic deaths of Orcs that charged in the face of overwhelming enemy numbers had given Luke many chills.
“Persistent b.a.s.t.a.r.ds…..”
The images of valiant Orcs charging without hesitation into impenetrable defense lines was still clear in Luke’s mind.”
“Ok, I do see where you are coming from. I still think it is a bit of a stretch to call me a magnificent commander though.”
Kurotan swallowed, and looked pitifully at Luke before replying.
“Take us in.”
“….”
“Help us adjust as humans.”
“I have already refused! Why would I help you when I don’t know what you’re plotting for after you become ‘humans’?”
“Orcs do not plot. We merely wish to follow Maal’s will, and carry on our wors.h.i.+p after we become humans.”
“How the h.e.l.l could I possibly believe you? You could be lying just to maintain your lives!”
“We are not afraid of death. Kueeek.”
Kurotan snorted with derision.
“Kueeek, it is an honor to return to the arms of the great Maal.”
Luke nodded his head slowly. That mindset would explain the valiant nature of Orcs.
“You Orcs really live your lives without planning.”
“…..”
“Out of nowhere, you kidnap an enemy commander and ask him to help Orcs to adjust to human life? You thought he would agree, just like that?”
“We will pay a price for your help.”
Luke snorted coldly.
“What price? The food supplies you guys have pillaged until now? Treasures?”
“We do not have food supplies. The last of it was sent to the Pushan Tribe before we found out about the ma.s.sacre.”
“Then what price will you pay for my help?”
“For the rest of our lives, our axes will be yours.”
Luke’s eyes opened wide with disbelief.
“Yo-you will pledge fealty to me?”
“Yes. Our lives will be yours should you help us become humans. Your orders shall be followed.”
Luke remained silent for a long time, before snapping to and glaring at Kurotan.
“So that’s why you chose me. Why you guys think of me as a ‘magnificent’ commander.”
Luke continued to stare Kurotan down.
“You guys do not trust humans. How will you swear fealty to me when you do not trust me?”
“Humans are too familiar with lying. It is hard for us to trust such beings.”
“I cannot deny that. Although humans that do not lie exist.”
“Kueeek. We simply have no other choice. We have decided to choose a single human, and follow him until the end.”
“And that chosen human is me?”
“Correct.”
Luke stared at Kurotan with almost pity. He had known that Orcs were simple and slow, but not that they would be simple to the extent of creating such a situation.
“I almost have no words to respond with…”
It was also true, however, that Luke couldn’t help but be attracted to the option.
Orcs were a race that followed a commander’s order to the letter, even if it was to charge into the enemy lines alone. Born warriors that did not even have the concept of disobeying an order.
‘I did wish for at least a couple of soldiers that took after the Orcs during my time as a Centurion…’
Kurotan fidgeted nervously while waiting for Luke’s answer.
“Why not Hal, whom you captured as well? He seemed to be a part of a crime syndicate. He would have accepted your offer without a second thought.”
“We cannot trust him.”
“And you can trust me?”
Kurotan stared Luke dead in the eyes.
“One thing is for certain. Should we follow you, we will not die a dog’s death in meaningless battles.”
“….”
“That is the reason why we have chosen to trust and swear fealty to you.”
Kurotan’s eyes turned even more sincere.
“We have no other plots. Please, trust us.”
“Ha… It is unlikely for your simple brains to come up with multiple plots… but isn’t there anything else you wish for? Like enacting vengeance upon the Pushan Tribe that drove the Latillas into extermination?”
“Of course we wish for vengeance! If possible, we hope you will give us the chance to enact it.”
Luke pondered furiously for a while before looking back at Kurotan.
“It is not a problem I can answer easily. Can I have some time to think?”
“Kueeek, how much time?”
“I will give you my answer tomorrow morning.”
“Tomorrow afternoon is the time when the humans launch their final push.”
“You will have your answer before then.”
Kurotan nodded silently.
“As you wish. I will wait until tomorrow.”
“Good. I will see you tomorrow, Kurotan.”
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