Killian stood calmly in the middle of the hallway.
The overwhelming aura that had filled the corridor slowly faded, but no one dared to move.
The surrounding crowd whispered among themselves.
> "Why is the Elf King here?"
"He just threatened Brothik…"
"If the Winter Lord hears about this, won't it become an international incident?"
Karry looked at Killian with disbelief.
Karry: "Sir Killian… I don't know why you helped us, but isn't it dangerous to offend that guy? What if Santa starts a war?"
Killian looked at Karry and smiled gently.
Killian: "What are you talking about?"
His answer came without the slightest hesitation.
Killian: "If protecting our friend means going to war, then so be it."
The entire hallway fell silent.
Even the crowd stopped whispering.
Karry blinked.
Karry: "You would really go that far?"
Killian nodded.
Killian: "Every elf owes Kernal a debt that cannot be repaid."
Then he chuckled softly.
Killian: "Besides, don't worry. A war won't start over something this trivial."
Kernal rubbed his forehead.
Kernal: "Sir Killian… I appreciate your help, but please don't create more trouble for me."
Killian laughed.
Killian: "Don't be so cold."
He placed a hand on Kernal's shoulder.
Killian: "We're friends, aren't we?"
His expression suddenly became serious.
Killian: "Come with me. I need to speak with you alone."
Kernal glanced at Karry.
Kernal: "Sorry, Karry. We'll continue your training later."
Without waiting for an answer, Killian and Kernal walked down the corridor together.
The crowd silently parted to make way for them.
Karry remained where he stood, watching their backs disappear into the distance.
Around him, the whispers started again.
> "Did you see that?"
"The Elf King personally came for Kernal..."
"Just who is that lieutenant?"
Karry looked down, deep in thought.
For someone who claimed to be an ordinary lieutenant...
Kernal seemed connected to people who could shake the balance of nations.
[End of chapter]