"She sounds like a smart woman," Satou observed.
"She is," Freda agreed with a small smile. "I should introduce you properly when we return. I think she'd like you—you have similar philosophies about power and responsibility."
The conversation drifted to lighter topics after that. Urgot, despite his pain, entertained them with exaggerated stories about his father Urgak's legendary stubbornness. Kelvin shared tales of the early days of Satou's settlement, when they were just a handful of goblins trying to survive in hostile territory.
Even Grimnir contributed, his normally gruff demeanor softening as he recounted battles they'd fought together, always emphasizing how Lord Satou's tactical brilliance had turned impossible situations into victories.
Sylvara listened but didn't participate, still lost in her own thoughts. Satou noticed but didn't push. She'd speak when ready.
