“Okay, My anxiety is over the roof! First those bandits and now you come, grab me and throw me around like a sack?” Ophelia snapped.

“Geez.. thank you much? Looks like you forgot who saved you from being SOLD by those guys. Don't overthink it. Thanks to me you still have your normal life.”

“ Right right, thank you so much, mister." Ophelia said ironically while crossing her arms. "Now I think you will begin by telling what you want in exchange for this favour.”

Khiel laughed, clearly he was amused “Unbelievable. I wasn't going to ask for anything, but since you were so kind as to bring it up… What can you offer me in return… lady…”  

“Nothing more than my gratitude, unfortunately. I’m sorry to inform you, but whatever expectations you have - I don’t even have a penny to my name.”

“Dont worry my lady, I already gathered much. Your thank you will suffice.” He said, smiling from ear to ear. 

“My goodness, you really have a knack for being annoying. Nonetheless you have my thanks, I don't know anyone here so I am suspicious of everyone.” her tone softened. “ Let me introduce myself, my name is Ophelia, no last name.”

Khiel smirked. “I’ll pretend I didn’t hear the insult. Hello, Ophelia-no-last-name. I’m Khiel de Cartasas. A pleasure.”

He gave a smooth bow, then turned as if to end the conversation. 

“ Rude from beginning to end…” Ophelia fumed “ Good bye, see you never!!”

She turned in the opposite direction and left without looking back. 

"What a morning", Ophelia thought to herself.

The encounter with those bandits had left her trembling. She had thought she could finally enjoy being outside the temple for once. Instead she was reminded why she had gone there in the first place. And to think… she would have to return here again when Katalya’s son arrived. That seemed impossible.

Ophelia sighed heavily. Then she froze.

That guy… his accent was strange. Could he be from the Kingdom of the Fallen Gods? And his name - Khiel de Cartasas. De Cartasas. Just like Katalya. But he wasn’t supposed to arrive until next month.

Could it really be him?