Chapter 136: Kalosia’s Holy Land (6)
Hayes desperately insisted that everything was a misunderstanding, repeatedly saying she had done nothing special. She tried to explain that Ketal hadn’t come here to become a follower of Kalosia, nor did he have any significant connection to her.
Yet, no one believed a word she said. Someone even laughed heartily and replied, “Come on, are you seriously saying that the barbarian was thoughtful and polite from the beginning? I heard you were one of the first people he met outside his homeland. Do you really expect us to believe such a ridiculous story? Where would you even find a barbarian like that?”
Hayes couldn’t refute their logic, because truthfully, it was far easier to believe that she had taught Ketal to be civilized than that he had always been this way. This made her situation all the more agonizing.
As Ketal’s reputation soared higher by the day, Hayes’s mental state rapidly deteriorated.
With a dying expression, she found herself walking alongside Ketal. He’d expressed a desire for someone to guide him around the sacred city, and she’d been unanimously chosen for the task. Every time they walked side by side, followers passing by watched them with warm, approving gazes.
Please... make them stop, Hayes begged inwardly. She felt her stomach twisting itself into knots.
As they walked, Ketal glanced around and muttered softly, “It’s surprisingly peaceful here.”
Indeed, the atmosphere was far better than he’d anticipated. People didn’t seem as gloomy as expected and appeared hopeful about the future of their city.
“For now, at least,” Hayes replied quietly. “As long as there’s no external interference, this is typically how our holy land feels. And it’s all thanks to you.”
Before Ketal’s arrival, the mood had undoubtedly been much darker. His presence alone had brightened their spirits, and for that, Hayes was genuinely grateful.
She bowed her head slightly toward him. “Truly, thank you for coming here to help us.”
“You don’t have to keep thanking me. I wouldn’t abandon a friend in need,” Ketal said cheerfully.