Chapter 153: Kergo Autonomous Region (Part 4)

Fortunately, there was an exit. The taste of the air changed as they emerged onto a terrace halfway up a stepped altar.

The jungle of Toa Mountain stretched out below them like a sea.

From twenty meters above sea level, the forest looked vast, with scattered Kergo settlements visible here and there.

As they circled around the altar, a palace made of gold came into view. It was the residence of the Kergo chieftain. Entering the palace, they found a long hall with two rows of tables set up.

Shirone took the seat of honor, with Amy, Rian, Tess, Canis, and Arin sitting to his right.

To the left sat Chieftain Kadum and the elders. Hasid, who had blown the horn, was not present. Mahatu was also seated at the lower end, indicating his rank was not low.

Music played, and traditional Kergo dishes were served. Before they could even taste the food, warriors entered, carrying large chests in pairs.

The warriors opened the chests, revealing an enormous amount of gold coins and jewels.

Shirone: “What is this?”

Kadum: “A humble gift from Kergo. Please accept it.”

The value of the contents went beyond counting; it had to be weighed. The five chests combined likely weighed at least a ton.