“Karundal, shall we head back now?” Kai asked, after briefly checking the state of the dwarven clan.0

Karundal, who had also been checking on his people, nodded. “Yes, please. I want to leave this dreadful place as soon as possible.”0

“Haha, you must have suffered greatly being trapped here.”0

“I wouldn’t say I suffered much. The time spent trapped was actually peaceful, but during the work hours…” Karundal trailed off, cutting his sentence short.0

Hm?0

Kai didn’t miss the change in his expression. It was a face reluctant or afraid to speak further. People in such a state tended to withdraw even more if pressed too hard.0

It’s better to empathize and let him open up on his own.0

That was a life lesson he had learned from comforting bullied friends!0

Kai softened his tone, showing a sympathetic expression as he said, “I understand. It must have been frightening. But you’re safe now. I, the Apostle, am here.”0

“Do you mean to tell me you know what I want to say?”0

“How could I not? I am not so inexperienced as to come here without understanding where I’m heading.”0

“Hah, I’m at a loss for words with such gratitude… Then, does that mean you came knowing everything?” Karundal looked at Kai with...0