Decision made

Nero strode toward Troy, a plank of wood clenched tightly in his hand. "Your damned apology isn't accepted here, savage orcs!" he spat, venom lacing his words. Behind him, the remaining villagers emerged from their hiding places, brandishing tools and weapons they had hastily gathered. Troy had thought they were cowering in their huts, but this sudden show of solidarity and defiance was unexpected. His face betrayed his shock.

"Nero!" Troy began, his voice edged with both confusion and alarm, "What the hell are you doing?"

Nero patted Troy's shoulder dismissively as he walked past him, his eyes locked on Sheluh, the orc princess who still knelt on the ground. "What does it look like I'm doing?" Nero retorted, his tone dripping with contempt. "I'm doing what you should have done."