Malter

Overview

Malter is a Kedev (devotee) within the Kelx faith encountered during a shipboard gathering Extramuros. After the magister's sermon, he approaches the narrator to ask whether he is an avout, explaining that rumors in town spoke of an avout in disguise coming down the glacier. He is later seen in Mahsht's old town, where he offers practical help.

Appearance and Traits

No physical description is provided. Malter comes across as respectful, curious, and openly admiring of the avout; he says that meeting one would be an honor.

Roles and Actions

• Attends a Kelx ark service held aboard a ship and listens to a magister's exhortation.
• After the service, engages the narrator in conversation about his identity, citing rumors from town.
• In Old Mahsht, he and Alwash provide the address of a Kelx mission hostel where the traveler might sleep if needed.

Relationships

• Alwash: A fellow Kedev who speaks with Malter and appears alongside him; together they later share a hostel address with the traveler in Mahsht's old town.
• Magister Sark: The magister leading the service Malter attends; Malter's interaction with the narrator occurs immediately after Sark's sermon.

Current Status

Seen as part of a shipboard Kelx congregation and later amid the crowds in Old Mahsht, offering assistance. No further information about his background or movements is given.