The defeat of the duke, whom they had never doubted as the strongest mortal, and the sight of a half-dragon bloodline kneeling him on the ground—it was more than a blow to their pride. They had seen their seemingly invincible protector fall and were forced to recognize the overwhelming power of this human right before them. Their fundamental belief that humans could easily be overcome had been shattered.
"His Grace was right. A marriage alliance is our only option."
"What nonsense are you spouting!?"
"Am I wrong? If that human turns hostile toward us, how will we defend ourselves?"
The dissenters fell silent. Here was someone who could make even the duke kneel without much struggle. If he entered their army and unleashed his power, countless elves would surely fall.
"…There's no need to assume hostility. At least this human seems to have a favorable view of elves."
"Hah."