“Could it be that…”
“Yes, we should form an alliance.”
“Just like in the previous war.”
“In that case, perhaps we may yet win?”
The small mutterings between the Lizardmen soon evolved into a big commotion. The entire hut was discussing Zaryusu’s opinion, yet Clan Head Shasuryu maintained his silence. The chief’s eyes looked as if he was gazing into the depths of his heart, rendering Zaryusu unable to turn his face to him.
After allowing ample time for discussion, Zaryusu spoke again.
“Don’t be mistaken. The alliance I spoke of includes all of the tribes.”
“What?”
At that suggestion, the second person to understand its meaning was the Head Hunter, who let out an astounded sound. Zaryusu’s eyes locked onto Shasuryu and Lizardmen in his line of sight subconsciously parted to either side.
“Clan Head, I also suggest forming an alliance with Dragon Tusk and Red Eye.”
The surrounding erupted in an enormous commotion, as if a grenade went off in the room. They had no communications with Dragon Tooth and Red Eye who did not take part in the war. Furthermore, Dragon Tooth took in the remnants of Yellow Speckle and Sharp Edge, the refugees of their enemy tribes.
To form an alliance with those two tribes, forming a five tribe alliance.
If that were possible then it might be possible to win. As everyone held this faint hope, Shasuryu suddenly spoke out:
“Who shall be the representative?”
“I will go.”
Shasuryu was not surprised by Zaryusu’s immediate answer. The surrounding lizardmen reckoned that it was because he understood his younger brother’s character and had anticipated this response. Letting out sounds of empathy, they also thought that there was no candidate more suitable to be selected. However there was one who was of an opposing opinion.
“— Sending a traveler?”
It was Shasuryu. His ice-like gaze pierced directly through Zaryusu.
“That is true, Clan Head. However we are at trying times. If the other side is unwilling to listen to my words merely because I am a traveler, then they have no worth as an ally.”
Zaryusu easily repelled the cold stare. After the two glared at one another for a brief moment, Shasuryu let out a lonely smile. It was either because he gave up, or because of his helplessness in stopping his brother, or perhaps internally ridiculing himself for agreeing. It was a smile without gloom.
“Bring along the seal of the Clan Head.”
That had the meaning of being the Clan Head’s representative. Several elders which wished to express the view that ‘this is not something a traveler should possess’ were silenced under Shasuryu’s powerful glare.
“My extreme gratitude.”
Zaryusu bowed. Accepting his gratitude, Shasuryu continued speaking:
“...I shall select the representatives who will head to the other tribes. First is…”