Malcolm's house was a flurry of activity. Friends were constantly dropping in, wishing him farewell, and good luck on his 'trip'. The Toe Goblins had given him one week to get ready and care for his stab wound. As far as the village knew, he was going on a yearlong vacation.

After the previous night's Toe Goblin attack, it was quite believable that Malcolm would need a break. He had been threatened, stabbed, and forced to watch helplessly as his village fell to the Toe Goblins.

In exchange for his life, Malcolm had made a deal with the Toe Goblins. One year of servitude, and then his freedom.

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But all day a thought had been brewing in his mind. What if he snuck away after a few weeks? He could seek protection in a local village, and with his knowledge of the Goblins, he could even capture them!

However, he was going along with the deal for now. It certainly was not ideal, but it was better than losing your life.

Satisfied with his packing, Malcolm threw his bag over his shoulder and left to meet Sven. As he looked back at his house for a last time, Sven's words echoes in his mind. You killed Svangal. You should take his place.