With the dust of the just concluded battle still settling down, the Beast King, Dwarven Chief, and Elf Queen gathered around to discuss the sudden turn of events.
The frustration and tension in the air was palpable, and the Elf Queen's eyes were ablaze with indignation.
"How could you surrender so easily, Beast King?" She spat, her voice dripping with contempt.
"We had them on the ropes! Now your foolish pride has cost us everything!"
The Beast King's eyes were steady as he met her gaze, "I made a promise." He said, his voice calm but firm. "I lost the duel, and I will keep my word. I won't force you to do the same, but I will command my forces to withdraw."
"You and your ridiculous honour!" the Elf Queen snapped. "What good is an honour if we lose here?"
The reason for the war was to exert the Triumvirate's influence and completely crush their enemies.
If the Beast King decided to be a weakling now, then…