Chapter 19 - 18
"My Lord, I believe the kobolds may have discovered us."
"The kobolds? What do you mean?"
"I’ve known them for a while. They know about us, too—we just never clashed because our numbers were similar. An all-out fight would’ve meant mutual destruction. But now... I feel like they’re watching. They’ve probably figured out our situation."
Lumberling trusted Skitz’s instincts. As the former leader of the tribe, his judgment held weight.
"With more than a hundred of them, they might decide to attack at any moment."
"Then we’re in trouble. What do you suggest we do?"
"They know nothing about you, Lord. We should strike first—catch them off guard and reduce their numbers."
"I was thinking the same. Tell me everything you know about them. Don’t leave out a single detail."
Skitz nodded. "The kobolds were here before us. They never provoked us because they knew my strength. But once, I saw their leader during a hunt. I suspect he’s stronger than me. They also have two evolved ones among them."
"We’ll assume their leader is mid-Knight Page level, with two evolved elites and a hundred fighters. It’ll be a tough battle. Start preparing the goblins. And ready your Detonation Seals."
Lumberling weighed the risk. He didn’t want the group he’d nurtured to perish. They could flee and relocate—but he chose to fight. He’d always intended to absorb the kobolds into his ranks. Originally, he’d planned to wait until the goblins were stronger. But circumstances demanded action now.