The four people's expressions softened a little.
However, they still keenly sensed that Lucas's standpoint was now with Hope Village, not the Beastmen.
Thinking back over all they'd seen along the way, especially the school taking in Beastman cubs and nurturing their combat abilities, it was clear Hope Village was acting with real intent.
They, the Bull-men, weren't as smart as the Kobolds. The Kobolds had already chosen Hope Village; could they also perhaps trust them a little?
"Even knowing your territory's difficulties, our territory would absolutely never take advantage of that. If you tell us, maybe we can solve the trouble sooner!" Lucas said, his voice edged with persuasion.
This wasn't deception—it was leading them to make the right choice.
Riley looked at Lucas, then at O'Neill, and finally fixed his gaze on Fred. "You're a Bull-man too—can you promise me in Beast God's name?"
