CHAPTER 120 — STEAM BEFORE THE FEAST
The lanterns inside the lodging had been dimmed to a warm amber glow. Armor lay stacked neatly near the entrance. Weapons rested within arm's reach of their owners, a habit too ingrained to ignore even in a grateful village.
Colby had just stretched out fully on his mat when the knock came.
Three measured raps against stone.
Zehell's eyes opened instantly.
Colby groaned. "If that's another King-tier, tell it to come back tomorrow."
Zehell crossed the room in two silent steps and opened the door.
The village head stood outside, smiling awkwardly, hands clasped behind his back. Two young villagers held lanterns behind him, their faces bright with excitement.
"Forgive the interruption," the old man said warmly. "But I did not know hunters retire so early."
Colby sat up. "Retire? We were dying peacefully."
The village head chuckled. "We have prepared a proper feast. The least we can offer. But before that… you must wash away today's burden."
