Chapter 191 - Gobs

"What's that?" Sonder asked, pointing toward a small village nestled in the valley below as they reached the top of the hill.

Vell's eyes followed to where she pointed.

There was a small village. 

"Huh." He made an exaggerated show of pulling an imaginary map from his robe, unrolling nothing in the air, and pretending to inspect it. "I don't think that should be there. Why don't we take a look, Sonder?"

Sonder nodded, "Alright."

As they descended, the village became clearer. Small wooden huts with thatched roofs huddled together, surrounded by a low stone wall that looked more decorative than defensive. Compared to the grand stonework of the dwarves, the craftsmanship here seemed almost primitive.

Smoke drifted lazily from a few chimneys, and a small figure darted from one hut to the next, moving so quickly that Sonder barely caught a glimpse.

She squinted. "What was that?"

Vell smirked. "If I had to guess... a goblin. Not often you find a goblin village like this. Must be newly built. Stay close. Goblins can be... jumpy."

As they reached the edge of the village, a small figure scurried toward them. The goblin was barely waist-high to Sonder, with greenish skin, enormous ears, and dark, wide eyes. His oversized leather cap flopped sideways as he ran, clutching a round black object in one hand and striking a match in the other.

"Halt! Who goes there?!" he squeaked, holding the match dangerously close to the black sphere.

Vell's eyes narrowed slightly. He didn't want himself, Sonder, or the goblin to blow up.

He dipped into a polite bow, his robe sweeping the dusty ground. His voice took on a calm tone. "Greetings, noble guardian. I am Vellichor, a wandering mage, and this is my apprentice, Blackbird Sonder. We mean no harm and come in peace."

The goblin narrowed his eyes, holding the match a fraction closer. "You're elves, aren't ya? Fancy clothes, pointy faces, white hair. Elves! Do you bring gifts?"

Vell exchanged a glance with Sonder, shrugging. "I wouldn't call myself an elf, no."

The goblin jabbed a finger toward Sonder. "And her? Pale skin, white eyes—elf!"

Sonder raised an eyebrow. "I'm not an elf either."

The goblin scowled, clearly unconvinced. "Then what are you?"

"Does it matter what we are?" Vell said, voice still calm but firmer now. "We've come as friends, not enemies."

The goblin puffed out his chest. "You can't fool me! My uncle told me all about elves. You'll answer to the chieftain! No tricks, elf-mage!"

Vell leaned toward Sonder, whispering. "Best not argue. Goblins love to think they're in charge."

The goblin guard led them toward the heart of the village, where a communal fire pit crackled gently. More goblins peeked from their doorways, whispering to each other. A few children darted closer, giggling and pointing.

At the largest hut, stitched together from mismatched wooden planks, sat a larger goblin with a cloak made from what appeared to be patchwork fabrics. A small crown of twigs and feathers rested atop his bald head.

The chieftain squinted at them. "Who are these—?"

"ELVES!" the guard declared proudly, gesturing wildly at Vell and Sonder. "Elves, Chief! Here to bless our fields or... or test us with magical trials!"

Sonder opened her mouth to protest, but Vell stepped forward, bowing again with an exaggerated flourish.

"We are travelers seeking only to know the good people of your village," he said smoothly. "No trials today. However... if there's anything you wish to ask of us, we are at your service."