“You’re quite polite for a god,” Ketal said.0

“It is because you have helped the world above.” Hephaite’s voice was calm as it filled the hall. “You faced down evil and lent your hand to the churches. You helped the persecuted orders in the North find firm ground.”0

During the battles in the North, there had been believers on the field. Through those eyes, the gods had watched the Ugly Rat and Ketal cross paths. Ketal had stood opposed to the rat. He had kept the surface safe from the being that stained all that lived.0

“At that time, we could hardly intervene in the Mortal Realm. We had to watch with open eyes while the Ugly Rat defiled the world. If not for you, the North would have fallen into that filth’s grip. More than that, you showed courtesy to our children. Courtesy should be returned.”0

Their manner toward Ketal was measured and deeply respectful.0

Ketal regarded Hephaite with a look of mild surprise. He had met three gods since stepping into this fantasy. The first had been Kalosia, God of Lies and Deception. Kalosia’s feelings had been friendly. The second had been the God of Hunger, Ferderica. They had glared...4