Dark Warlock in the Apocalypse

Chapter 51: Leadership and New Alliances

"Ding! The leader must be at least level 5."

"Wait a minute! Does that mean only a pioneer can be the leader?"

"That's correct.""How is that fair? This is unfair!"

"We were never interested in fairness from the start."

Despite their protests, all they got in return was a snort from Nox. Realizing that protests wouldn't work, the civilians immediately convened a meeting.

The best option was for one of the civilians to level up, even now. However, this wasn't a feasible plan.

"You're going hunting? Outside the safe zone?"

"Who? Come on out! We'll help you!"

The pioneers, who had endured so much from the civilians, waited with gritted teeth for someone to step forward. Of course, no civilian was unaware that the moment they stepped outside, they would be killed.

The second option was to refuse to elect a leader. However, if the safe zone disappeared, they would be powerless.

With no other choice, the civilians opted for the third option.

"Give it to the one who looks the easiest to manipulate!"

A pioneer who was above level 5 but still held a notably low status. Someone who belonged to a faction somewhat distant from the other pioneers. Lastly, someone who was timid and seemed unlikely to commit murder.

That person was Rodri.

"Wait, are you saying that guy is still your leader?" Justin asked.

"No, he's not. He was elected, but he quickly handed it over to someone else," Rachel explained.

The civilians' expectations were partially correct. Though Rodri was elected as the leader, he didn't even dare to wield his power. Instead, he feared that any decision he made would earn him the resentment of the other pioneers.

Despite exchanging polite pleasantries, Justin's mind was racing. It would be a waste to part ways just like this. It wasn't often that he got to connect with another territory and other pioneers.

Justin decided to take a shot.

"How about we help you out with some hunting? I'm getting tired of dealing with gnolls all the time anyway."

"...!"

Rachel's eyes widened for a moment, but she quickly nodded, smiling brightly.

"Really? We'd be incredibly grateful if you did!"

"Then come to this spot by noon tomorrow. Actually, it might be safer if I come to you instead, considering the gnolls."

"There's a path leading to our safe zone's forest entrance near here. I'll show you."

On the surface, it appeared to be an amicable conversation. But the underlying message was clear: let's meet again, take our time, and properly make a plan. Rachel seemed to understand Justin's intention, acting as if she were simply overjoyed.

To anyone watching, it would have seemed like pure goodwill being exchanged.

The two of them parted with smiles. But the moment Justin turned his back, the smile faded from his face.

'I'll need to reassess the atmosphere back in the territory.'

A new variable and a new option had emerged in a stagnant situation. Which direction would be the best for him and his companions? Before making a decision, Justin needed to be sure of the situation on his side.

It was not long after he had returned to the safe zone that he was approached.

"...Justin, are you interested in the leader position?" Zachary asked, his face weary.

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