"Accepting refugees? My dear friend, what are you talking about?" Lott replied, his voice dripping with sarcasm as if he were listening to a joke. His exaggerated tone made it clear that he found the idea absurd.
Kao responded vehemently, "Our fairies may be kind, but do you think the patriarchs of the six clans would agree to that? They hold these humans captive!" His fists clenched tightly, the tension in his body evident as he prepared to confront Lott. "If you don't tell me the truth, I'll show you just how terrifying my strength can be!"
As he swung his fist, Lott effortlessly caught it. Although he might seem weaker against Altria or Galahad, he had no trouble holding back Kao's fist. The moment Kao struggled, Lott tightened his grip, applying more pressure.
"Let go!" Kao shouted, his expression contorting in pain.
Seeing his distress, Lott smirked and released Kao's hand. "Calm down; this isn't a fabrication. Many fairies are aware of this situation. We wandering fairies sometimes discuss how envious we are of your clans, enjoying the company of humans."
Kao remained sceptical. "I still don't believe my patriarch would do such a thing!" He insisted, convinced of his patriarch's integrity.
Lott noticed Kao's stubbornness and played his card. "Go ask the fairies. I believe you'll receive a very satisfactory answer."
Morgan interjected thoughtfully, "But it's possible your patriarch is being deceived. After all, the six clans have their differences."
Lott couldn't help but admire Morgan's timing; her words were perfectly placed to deflect attention away from them. This strategy could ignite conflict between the clans, laying the groundwork for their advantage.
Kao's anger boiled over. "I see! I must go find out what's happening!" He stormed off, pointing toward the elegant house nearby. "You two can stay there. I've prepared everything; it's ready for you. I need to speak with the other fairies now!"
"Sounds good. I hope you find the truth," Lott replied, maintaining a calm facade.
"I will get the right answer!" Kao declared as he left.
Once inside the house, Morgan turned to Lott. "Do you think Kao will find the right answer?"
"Absolutely. The earth clan's spirits are straightforward. They might be naive, but they aren't foolish. They'll uncover the truth," Lott said confidently.
Morgan smiled, eager for the drama that was about to unfold.
Meanwhile, Kao rushed towards Nalia, who was returning with glasses of juice. She knew bringing back juice was just an excuse; she couldn't return empty-handed.
Seeing Kao's furious approach, Leah nervously asked, "Master Kao, what's wrong?"
Kao slammed his hammer near Leah's ear, startling her. "What are you doing with the humans?"
Leah trembled, realizing the gravity of the situation. "We just want to give the homeless humans a place to live!" she replied, fear gripping her.
"Do you think I'm a fool?" Kao retorted, his frustration palpable.
Leah felt the threat of the hammer looming over her. She knew she had to answer honestly, despite the danger.
As the night wore on, Lott and Morgan no longer awaited Kao's return, realizing that little Leah might not return at all.
"By the way, what do we have left from our supplies?" Lott asked, turning to Morgan.
She rummaged through her bag and pulled out a few patties. "Just these."
The meatloaf from Lott's hometown was usually enjoyable, but now thoughts of Leah being crushed under Kao's fury dampened their appetite.
"I'm not very hungry," Lott said, his tone lacking enthusiasm.
"Me neither," Morgan agreed, nodding.
"Let's just rest then," Lott suggested.
"Okay," Morgan replied.
Looking around the cosy interior, Lott noted the craftsmanship of the Earth clan fairies. Despite being built quickly, the house was impressive, with complete wooden furniture. The cedar bed, adorned with animal fur and cloth, was especially inviting, measuring over two meters in length—perfect for Lott.
They lay down to rest, but just as they settled, there came a loud knock at the door.
"Who is it?" Lott asked, a hint of irritation in his voice.
"It's me," came the half-lame voice of Kao.
Lott exchanged glances with Morgan, surprised by his rapid return. He rose from the bed and opened the door to reveal an agitated Kao, accompanied by the little fairy Leah.
"Thank you! We've been deceived! The Wind Clan fairies are plotting against us!" Kao exclaimed.
Morgan had already cast a spell, ensuring no other fairies could overhear their conversation.
"Deceived? Come in and let's discuss," Lott invited, assuming the role of a sympathetic listener as Kao stepped inside.