MMORPG: I was BUGGED-Chapter 346: Words Beyond the Curtain

Despite the magical cuffs ensuring their safety, the group couldn’t shake the feeling of being under scrutiny. It seemed the Yokai were cautious and intrigued by their presence.

The vibrant and beautiful village, once a lively spectacle, now held an undercurrent of tension as the group ventured deeper into Yamamura Village.

The guards led them through the winding streets, revealing hidden gems of the village that couldn’t be seen from the cliffs.

The group continued to take in the sights and sounds, hoping to find answers about the elusive Golden Tail Kitsune and get to see what the village had to offer.

Yet, the Yokai’s watchful eyes hinted at a more complex reception than they had anticipated.

"They weren’t kidding when they told us that they were hostile to non-Yokais," Victor said, mentally preparing himself for the unexpected.

The villagers here seemed as if they were on the verge of attacking them with their pointed glares. It was a miracle that they hadn’t already, with some of them already brandishing weapons.

"What do you expect? With the war with the humanoids that almost made them extinct, you couldn’t blame them," Sylvan defended.

"You do know that you’re a humanoid, right? You’re an elven hunter," Victor pointed out.

Sylvan got frustrated and roared at Grey Smoke, "Shut up." His face then contorted into a deep frown. "If I knew that there were Yokais in this world, I shouldn’t have chosen an Elf. Come to think of it . . . how do you become a Yokai?"

"I think you should die and have your spirit reincarnate into a talking goldfish like that guy over there," Victor said, pointing at some of the villagers that resembled a walking fish.

"There’s no way that could be true," said Sylvan, then whispered to the guards, "Is it?"

The guards ignored him and urged them to hurry into the castle where Satomi resides.

The castle was perched on a hill at the center of the village, a commanding presence that demanded attention.

Xin and the others ascended a few hundred sets of stairs before finally reaching the pinnacle. What awaited them surprised even the seasoned players –– it resembled more of a sacred shrine than a conventional castle.

As they approached, the grandeur of the exterior became apparent, adorned with intricate designs, towering columns, and architectural details that spoke of Yokai craftsmanship.

However, upon crossing the threshold, the interior revealed a stark contrast.

Unlike the expectations of regal chambers and numerous rooms within a castle, the interior was unexpectedly barren.

Instead of rooms, there was a vast hall that stretched before them. The grandiosity of the exterior seemed to fade into simplicity within.

At the far end of the hall, a raised stage caught their attention, and a giant drapery that stretched from ceiling to floor covered whoever was behind the stage.

The silhouette of an enormous seated woman was seen through the fabric, creating an imposing presence even in the shadow.

The atmosphere within the hall carried an air of reverence, making it clear that this space was more than just a dwelling; it was a place of significance, perhaps a center of worship or a stage for important ceremonies. 𝗳𝚛𝗲𝕖𝚠𝚎𝚋𝗻𝗼𝕧𝗲𝐥.𝚌𝚘𝐦

The echoes of their footsteps reverberated in the spacious hall, creating an eerie silence that seemed to amplify the mystery shrouding the legendary person behind the curtain.

The guards directed Xin and the others to kneel on the floor, their actions indicating a gesture of respect and submission.

In front of the impressive drapery, rows of white-furred Kitsunes stood, their faces adorned with fox-like smiles complete with crescent eyes.

Dressed in elegant white kimonos, these Kitsunes walked on two feet, each having two hands, presenting an appearance that suggested servitude.

From behind the curtain, a voice spoke, its tone light, soft, and undeniably coming from a woman. "Good day, adventurers. What brings you to our village?"

Sylvan gasped, seemingly entranced and starstruck. "It’s Satomi! It’s really the Nine-Tailed Kitsune talking to us from behind the curtain!"

"Shush, you! You’re embarrassing us," Victor reprimanded. "Act like our leader."

"It’s no use; he’s long gone," Seraphim remarked, pointing out Sylvan’s infatuated expression, his mouth agape and eyes wide open.

Victor sighed. "I can’t believe all that strictness and arrogance went down the drain so quickly."

"My people told me that you wanted to wander around our village and sightsee. Is that what you really came here for?" the voice continued from behind the curtain.

Victor took on the role of their spokesperson, leading the conversation as Sylvan was indisposed.

"We came in peace," Victor stated. "And yes, we just want to explore the village and get to know more about the Yokais."

The white Kitsunes remained unbothered, maintaining their usual smiling faces. They stood as still as statues, their breathing the only sign of life.

Satomi remained silent for a moment before speaking with an amused tone, tinged with wariness and a hint of anger. "That’s what they all said, but in the end, we faced war with your kind because you wanted our magic. You wanted more once you know what we’re capable of."

"Your Lady Satomi, we understand the painful history between our kinds, and we sincerely apologize for any harm caused by our predecessors. Our purpose here is not to exploit or harm your village.

"We seek knowledge, understanding, and the opportunity to foster peaceful coexistence between humanoids and Yokais. If you allow us, we promise to respect your traditions, protect the sanctity of your magical arts, and ensure that our presence brings only harmony to Yamamura Village."

Whoa . . . Xin didn’t know that Victor could be as charismatic as Ragnarok Reaper.

He looks pretty cool right now. Xin thought. "I have newfound respect for you," he muttered in a low voice.

"Your words carry weight," Satomi replied, her tone thoughtful. "But the scars of past conflicts run deep. How can I be sure your intentions align with the peace you speak of?"

This time, Xin took the lead in responding. Feeling that it would be faster if he was the one who communicate directly with her.

Xin took a deep breath to prepare for his speech but managed only to say, "Believe us, Lady Satomi."