Chapter 68: Journey to Iridale - 1
"Ah—sorry I kept you waiting," the man said, brushing his palms on his trousers as he stepped down. His eyes went first to Ethan, then to Lirael. The sight of their well-maintained weapons and fitted armor seemed to ease the furrow in his brow.
But when his gaze shifted past them, to the four armored soldiers standing in disciplined silence, he faltered.
The men were unnervingly still, clad head to toe in steel. Where the armor left gaps, dark fabric concealed even the smallest glimpse of skin. The anonymity lent them a menacing air—more statues than men, waiting only for a purpose unknown.
The merchant's lips parted, about to voice his unease, when Ethan spoke first, his tone casual but firm.
"They're on a mission," he explained, glancing toward the soldiers. "Even I don't know the details, and they won't be speaking of it. But don't worry—they're trustworthy, and it's a coincidence that I'm traveling with them for this journey."
