Chapter 238: Keth’al Village [1]
"Well, it’s nothing big, I just wanted to ask for a favor," I said. "Could you lend us a pair of Khools again?"
They nodded in understanding, glancing between me and Cassandra. "Are you gonna go to the Eclipse Keep again, benefactor?"
"Yeah, you got it right." I nodded. "I need to escort this young lady to the keep. And of course I’m also returning there."
"Of course, benefactor." The first guard replied without hesitation. "In that case, why don’t you visit the chief while we prepare the Khools? You left while he was unconscious after all." His expression grew serious. "He’s been regretting the chance to express his gratitude properly."
The second guard nodded in agreement. "Yes, Keth’mar has been asking about you every day since he woke up. He feels dishonored that he couldn’t thank you face to face."
"O-Oh, is that so..." I replied awkwardly. We were a bit short on time at that time, so we left early in the morning. The chief must have woken up around noon or evening, given his condition. "Alright, take us to the chief, then. It won’t hurt to stay for a bit, right?"
"Mm..." Cassandra hummed softly, expressing her agreement.
"Good, then Torvix will take you to the chief, while I will take care of the Khools." The second guard patted me on the shoulder. Thankfully, my physical strength was high, or else I would have buckled right then and there. "Don’t worry, I will pick the best ones for you two."
"I really appreciate it, brother Borix." I nodded gratefully and turned to the first guard. "Please, lead the way, brother Torvix."
"Let’s go." Torvix smiled and gestured for us to follow him deeper into the settlement.
As we walked through the village, I couldn’t help but notice how the Keth’al people went about their daily lives. Children with the same pale blue skin and white hair played between yurts, some shooting snowballs at each other, while some made snowmen, and some practiced with sticks. Their laughter created small puffs of crystalline mist in the cold air.
"So," Cassandra said quietly, clearly unable to hide her curiosity. "You’ve been here before?"