For Kaa, these humans weren't of much use to begin with.
The fairies, though not born from the Inner Sea of the Planet but rather emerging due to humans, still couldn't completely separate themselves from humanity.
However, with so many humans outside, replenishing their numbers was as simple as taking a few here and there.
In Kaa's eyes, his current actions were nothing more than a kind-hearted effort to help some common folk.
We, the fairies of the Earth Clan, have no pressing matters to attend to. Isn't it only natural to lend a hand to these ordinary human residents in passing?
How, then, in the words of these fairies before me, has it become some scheme to keep humans caged like livestock?
"Taking in refugees? My dear friend, what are you talking about?" Upon hearing Kaa's words, Lot's tone turned exaggerated, as if he were listening to some absurd joke.
"While it's true that our fairy race isn't lacking in kind-hearted individuals, do you really believe the leaders of the Six Clans are among them? Let me tell you this each of these six leaders harbors the intention to keep those humans as livestock."
"What are you saying!? How dare you slander our leader like this!?"
Though Kaa was somewhat wary of the combat prowess Lot had just displayed, this matter concerned his own mission there was absolutely no room for compromise. Clenching his fists tightly, he radiated an aura that said, If you don't give me a proper explanation, I'll show you just how terrifying my fists can be.
His fist shot forward, aiming straight for Lot.
But the moment he threw his punch, Lot caught it effortlessly.
While Lot might have seemed weaker in the face of Artoria Pendragon or Galahad, the fact that he could crumple an iron hammer meant restraining Kaa's fist was no trouble at all.
The moment his fist was caught, Kaa tried to struggle free. Seeing this, Lot had no choice but to tighten his grip further.
Feeling Lot's strength and the sharp pain radiating from his fist, Kaa initially resisted the urge to cry out.
No matter what, I'm a tough man. In a situation like this, I absolutely cannot show weakness!
He steeled himself with determination.
However, as the pressure continued to increase, Kaa finally couldn't take it anymore.
"Oww, owowow !!"
He cried out loudly, his face twisting in pain.
Seeing this, Lot chuckled and released Kaa's fist.
Then, he looked at Kaa and said, "Alright, calm down first. This matter is definitely not something we fabricated."
"Really?"
Rubbing his sore fist, Kaa tried to ease the lingering pain. He stared at Lot with suspicion in his eyes.
He still refused to believe it.
"This is something widely known among many fairies. We wandering fairies sometimes discuss it, even envying you clan-affiliated fairies for being able to freely indulge in humans."
Lot continued to press further.
Even after hearing this, Kaa remained unconvinced.
"I still refuse to believe my leader would do such a thing."
As his leader's fellow disciple, Kaa prided himself on understanding his leader well he was certain the man wasn't that kind of person.
Seeing his stubbornness, Lot secretly rejoiced. But outwardly, he spread his hands and said, "You can go ask the other fairies and see how they react. I'm sure you'll get a very satisfying answer."
At that moment, Morgan spoke up, seemingly trying to mediate:
"Though it's also possible that your leader was deceived as well. After all, there are differences even among the Six Clans."
[Good wife! Perfect timing.]
Hearing Morgan deliver the most fitting words at the most opportune moment, Lot couldn't help but mentally praise her.
This is exactly it we need to shift the conflict onto the tension between the Earth Clan's leader and the other clans.
Only by making these fairies fight among themselves can we lay the foundation for our victory.
Morgan, hearing Lot's thoughts, felt a surge of pride. However, unlike Lot, who wore a mask to conceal his expressions, she couldn't openly smirk.
"Ah, that might be the case too."
Lot also feigned sudden realization, nodding at Kaa.
Hearing these two fairies speak this way, Kaa felt his anger surging to his head.
"I see. I'll go and get to the bottom of this!"
Gritting his teeth, Kaa shouted loudly.
Then, he pointed at the exquisitely crafted house nearby and said to Lot and Morgan:
"Here, you two can stay there for now. I've already prepared everything inside you can settle in right away. I won't be hosting you further. I'm going to question those fairies immediately."
"Understood. May you uncover the truth."
Lot nodded.
"I will get the right answer."
With that, Kaa turned and stormed off.
Lot and Morgan entered the house.
Once inside, Morgan asked Lot:
"Do you think Kaa will get the answer he's looking for?"
"Of course. The Earth Clan fairies may be straightforward, but they're not fools. They'll definitely find out what they want to know."
Lot nodded confidently.
"And then, the real show begins."
Morgan agreed with his assessment, her expression one of eager anticipation.
...
Meanwhile, after leaving, Kaa immediately headed straight for Leah's location.
Leah was just returning with a few cups of juice in hand.
Though she knew fetching juice had just been an excuse, she couldn't very well return empty-handed.
On her way back, she happened to run into Kaa, who was stomping toward her in a rage.
"U-Um, Master Kaa, is something the matter?"
Seeing his expression, Leah asked timidly.
Kaa didn't waste words he swung his hammer, stopping it right beside Leah's ear.
"Eek !!"
Leah nearly fainted from fright.
Only then did Kaa continue his interrogation:
"Now, tell me what's the real reason you're taking in these humans?"