The hunters quickly abandoned their harpoon guns and scurried into action. Although chaos was unfolding all around me, I felt oddly detached. I was merely an observer rather than an active participant.0

This is a little excessive, even if I am an “unqualified” captain… 0

Then it clicked.0

Wait. Is earning the hunting party’s trust part of the trial? 0

Everything I had experienced on this floor seemed to suggest as much. Perhaps demonstrating my strength against the attacking elves would gain the hunters’ confidence.0

No… It can’t be that simple, can it?0

Resolving the ambush peacefully would pave the way for negotiations with the elves. On the other hand, however, killing the elves would undoubtedly earn the trust of the hunting party, though it would completely shut down any possibility of diplomacy.0

This ambush will be the deciding moment for this floor. 0

After a brief moment of reflection, I made up my mind. 0

Timing it perfectly, the vice-captain glanced back and called out to me, “Captain! We need to move!”0

“Ah, right. On my way.”0

At least they hadn’t completely abandoned me despite my status as an outsider. Whether I decided to mediate or fight, I needed to act quickly. Without looking back,...0