Sanctuary: Safe Haven

Once Canna and Kael stepped inside the hut, they were greeted by the enticing aroma of various meats prepared in different ways.

The table was a feast for the eyes, adorned with an array of dishes that looked both hearty and delicious. There were platters of steamed meat, glistening with savory juices, charred cuts that exuded a smoky aroma, and perfectly grilled portions that promised a tender bite. Read new chapters at m_v-l'e|-NovelBin.net

The presentation of the food was equally impressive. Garnishes of fresh herbs and spices added a touch of elegance to each dish.

Alongside the meat were bowls of vibrant fruits, some of which Canna had never seen before, their exotic colors and shapes piquing his curiosity. There were also pitchers of wine, their deep crimson and golden hues hinting at rich, complex flavors.

Canna's mouth began to water at the sight, and he noticed Kael's stomach making an audible rumble, betraying his hunger. The spread before them was a testament to the village's hospitality.

At the end of the table sat the village chief, dressed in formal attire befitting her status. She wore a robe made of finely woven fabric, adorned with intricate patterns that represented her authority and the heritage of the village. The robe's deep, earthy tones complemented the chief's dignified presence, and a sash of woven threads highlighted her waist.

Her hair was tied back with a decorative band, emphasizing her sharp, commanding features.

Beside her sat Tiberius, also dressed formally for the occasion. His attire, though still rugged, was more refined than his usual battle gear. He wore a tunic made of durable material, its dark color accentuating his muscular frame. The tunic was adorned with tribal patterns, similar to the chief's, but with a more warrior-like touch.

His greatsword was sheathed at his side, a reminder of his role as the village guardian.

Canna and Kael approached the table, their eyes lingering on the bountiful feast before them. The chief gestured for them to sit, her expression warm yet authoritative. "Please, join us. We have much to discuss, but first, let's share a meal."

As they took their seats, Canna couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The morning's discussion promised to be enlightening, and the meal before them was a perfect start.

_____

As they settled into their seats, the village chief began the introductions. Her voice was clear and authoritative, yet there was a warmth in her tone that invited conversation.

"Welcome," she began. "I am Liora Blackthorn, the chief of this village. This is my son, Tiberius, who you have already met. He is the guardian of our village."

Tiberius nodded respectfully as his mother introduced him, his formal attire adding to his imposing presence.

"My husband, Varok, is currently out on a conquest and surveying the lands. He is expected to return in three days' time," Liora continued, her eyes flickering with a hint of pride and longing.

As the introductions went on, Canna was already deeply immersed in the food. He savored each bite, barely hearing a word of the conversation. The flavors were rich and robust, and the meats were cooked to perfection. Kael, noticing Canna's preoccupation, decided to take the lead in the conversation.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Chief Liora," Kael began, his tone polite and inquisitive. "If you don't mind my asking, it's quite unusual to see a woman as the chief of a barbarian village. Traditionally, the strongest warrior usually holds that position."

Tiberius chuckled at Kael's question, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "My father is unlike any other barbarian you've met. He saw potential in my mother that went beyond brute strength. He made her the village chief to ensure that if anything were to happen to him, the village would still run smoothly under her guidance."

Liora smiled at her son's words, a mix of pride and gratitude in her expression. "Varok is a wise and forward-thinking man. He understands that strength isn't just about physical power but also about wisdom, leadership, and the ability to nurture and protect our people."

Kael nodded thoughtfully, appreciating the insight. "That makes a lot of sense. It's a progressive way of thinking, especially in a society that values strength so highly."

As the conversation continued, Canna remained focused on his meal, savoring the flavors and textures of the food before him. He occasionally glanced up, catching bits and pieces of the discussion, but for the most part, he was lost in the culinary experience.

Liora noticed Canna's enthusiasm for the food and smiled warmly. "I'm glad you're enjoying the meal, Canna. It's a testament to our village's ability to thrive in harmony with the land."

Canna looked up, finally realizing that he had been missing the conversation. He gave a sheepish grin. "The food is incredible. Thank you for the feast, Chief Liora."

Liora nodded graciously. "You're welcome. Now, let us discuss what brings you to our village and how we might be able to assist each other."

With the introductions complete and the meal well underway, the conversation shifted to the purpose of Canna and Kael's visit, setting the stage for the important discussions ahead.

_____

As Canna continued to devour the food laid out before him, he occasionally paused to answer Liora's questions, but his focus remained primarily on the delicious feast. Between bites of tender meat and sips of exotic wine, he finally responded to the village chief's inquiry.

"I came to look for races that specialize in nature magic," Canna said, his voice slightly muffled by a mouthful of food. "I need their help to revitalize my domain. We were only passing through and didn't really know about your village. If you could help us, then I can help with the protection of your village. I could provide manpower and whatever you might need."

Kael glanced at Canna, slightly exasperated but understanding. When they were at the Kingdom of Avaloria, Canna had purposely missed the grand feast, choosing instead to stay in his room. This was the first time he was actually eating something other than raw monster meat in a long while, and it was evident that he was thoroughly enjoying it.

Liora listened intently, nodding thoughtfully at Canna's offer. "Your quest is indeed noble, and assistance with protection would be valuable. We have faced many challenges from the forest's dangers."

As the conversation continued, Canna remained engrossed in the food. The spread was impressive, with meats prepared in various ways—steamed, charred, and grilled. The decoration of the food was equally captivating, with vibrant fruits and aromatic herbs arranged artfully around the platters. Even the wine, a deep ruby red, was something Canna had never tasted before.

Every now and then, Canna would glance up, his face reflecting a mixture of satisfaction and focus on the feast. He barely registered the subtle tension in the air as Liora and Kael discussed the details of their potential alliance.

Suddenly, as if remembering something important, Canna looked up from his plate. "I forgot," he said, wiping his mouth with a napkin. "Meet my subordinates as well."

With those words, the atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically. From Canna's shadow, Mortem and Vorgrim began to manifest, their forms emerging with an eerie, otherworldly grace. Mortem's hollow eyes and Vorgrim's imposing presence cast a palpable tension over the gathering.

As if that wasn't enough, a red portal opened behind Canna. From it stepped Grimruk, wielding a massive greataxe with ease. His towering figure and menacing aura sent a shiver through the room. The villagers, including the chief, were visibly anxious at the sight of Canna's formidable subordinates.

Tiberius instinctively reached for his weapon, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the threat. Liora, despite her calm demeanor, couldn't hide the flicker of unease in her eyes. The power and danger exuded by Canna's subordinates were undeniable.

"These are my subordinates," Canna said, his voice steady and matter-of-fact. "Mortem, Vorgrim, and Grimruk. They are here to ensure our mission's success."

The village chief swallowed hard, trying to maintain her composure. "You have quite the powerful entourage, Canna. It is... impressive."n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Tiberius, his hand still resting on his weapon, studied the newcomers carefully. "Your strength is indeed formidable. We will need to discuss the details of our alliance further."

Canna, still focused on the food but aware of the tension, nodded. "Of course. Let's finish this meal and then talk about how we can help each other."

As they resumed their breakfast, the presence of Canna's subordinates loomed large, a stark reminder of the power and potential that Canna brought with him. The discussion about their alliance continued, but now with a renewed sense of respect and caution from the villagers.

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