Bella and Serila, both warriors far stronger than Clare, positioned themselves protectively in front of her.
Their bodies bore the marks of battle, especially Serila, whose strong and fiery nature had led her to fight fiercely, incurring the most injuries.
Clare, watching her companions suffer for her sake, felt a deep sense of guilt.
It was because of her that they were enduring this pain, just like when they had first escaped from their noble captors.
Determined not to let this continue, Clare resolved to become stronger.
If they survived this ordeal, she vowed to grow strong enough to protect others, even Alan.
"You beast, come here! I am your true master!" The nobleman glared at Clare in rage.
It was all because of this beastfolk, this "animal," that he had suffered so much humiliation.
