Staying behind

"Why on earth am I the one staying behind!?"

The first to protest Justin's decision was Derek.

He stood up, shouting with a frustrated expression that showed he couldn't understand the reasoning.

"This doesn't make any sense! The strongest person in the territory right now is...!"

"That would be me," Justin calmly interrupted.

"Ahem! I misspoke. The second strongest person here is...!"

"That would be Ethan when he uses his Avatar skill."

"Oh, come on! I mean in terms of average combat power!"

"If we're talking about average combat power, then yes, you're the second strongest."

Justin smiled as he said what Derek clearly wanted to hear.

Only then did Derek nod in satisfaction.

"Exactly! When it comes to average combat power, I'm the second in command!"

"Yeah, you're amazing. Truly impressive. As expected from you, Derek."

"Hmm-hmm."