Chapter 573: Fate's Reproach

Gathrin chuckled, a low rumble emanating from deep within his chest. "When is Fate not? You would think a goddess had better things to do than pester Arantius, but here we are. I suppose you'd like to see her?"

I blinked, somewhat taken aback by the sudden shift in his speech. Just seconds ago, he'd been practically spouting poetry, but now he actually dared to refer to Fate so casually?

"Y-yes, please," I said, offering another small curtsey.

"So polite," he said with a smile. "But please, there is no need to lower yourself before me. In my past life, I could do nothing but accept the worship of the masses. Now, I am but a memory, a remnant of the hero who once was. It would be nice if you treated me no differently than your friend."

A-a friend?" My eyes widened, and I took a step back. 

"Yes, I think I'd rather like that. Is something the matter?"

I took a deep breath, shaking my head. "No, it's just...a friend...?"