Arthur's Point of View

Temple

Sitting beside Aydalia all alone, I spoke to her unconscious form. “What was it you saw in my memories?” I placed my forehead in my hands in thought. “Did you see a false idol? A monster that terrified you?” Lowering my hands, my eyes focused on the form lying on the bed. “Was it truly to help me, or is it a trap?”

The Duke and Duchess of Lestrania offering my Helmsforth had one of two outcomes. Maybe it’s true that they were being honest. It’s possible they were approached by Aien for Aydalia, and they are sincere in their offer. On the other hand, if I accept and it’s a trap, I’ll likely be labeled a traitor. That won’t affect me as much since they wouldn’t be able to make me leave, but it’s still a suspicious offer.

A knock at the door got me to lean back in my chair, immediately annoyed. “It’s open.”

Someone entered. Had I been more rested, I probably would’ve cared more to see who it was. Considering I’d been up for a few days straight, things could be worse. That being said, my mind was teetering. No sleep, low energy, and putting up with annoyance after annoyance was making things worse and worse.

“Sir.” Greigh’s voice called out.

I just sat there and didn’t respond as I waited for him to continue. “…”

I probably didn’t look the most presentable, given my posture, clothes, and overall appearance. “I came as you requested.”

“Requested?” I repeated.

“You told me you’d like to speak in private.” My captain replied.

Without looking at him, I gestured to the other side of Aydalia’s bed. “Then let us speak.”

He moved over as I guided, but he sighed as he stood there. “Are you doing okay? I know you’re exhausted. Despite how well you hide it-“

Finally, looking up at him as he stood there, I cut him off. “Hide it,” He flinched at my tone. “Or did you overhear me when you were at my home earlier?”

“You knew?”

“After Alwin and Lucia’s impromptu visit when I was having a private discussion with Cassidy, I’ve made it a habit to keep an eye on my home for those who might lurk about.” I explained bitterly and then gave him a small wave. “What you heard was everything I wanted you to hear.”

“Am I to assume that’s what you wanted to speak to me about in private?” He jumped when a wave of my energy filled the room and blocked the door.

A small smile came to my lips. “You truly are perceptive.” I gestured to the chair behind him. “So?” He sat down and looked at me, wanting clarification. “Any thoughts on the matter?”

Greigh was silent for a bit as I saw his eyes dart about, trying to quickly arrange his thoughts. “Many. With even more questions.” Motioning for him to continue, he sighed. “Why are you still hiding?” The questions continued to pour from him one after another.

So many that he didn’t give me any time to answer. The captain seemed almost as lost as I was. Confused and unsure of himself was not something I ever expected to see from him. He sat there panting as his tirade of questions finally died down. His eyes met mine, begging for answers. After all, I was known for not giving many.

Steepling my fingers together, my thumbs fiddled with one another. “I’m going to tell you a story, Greigh.” Leaning forward, he waited. “A story of a man called Mordred. A name I’m sure you’re now familiar with.” At least, one he heard recently. “When I finish, if there are any questions you still have, I will answer them to the best of my ability.”

And so, the two of us sat. Greigh cut in every now and then. Usually, when he learned about someone new. Hearing about another hidden sibling, Elias was surprising for him. As was Mara. He also became interested in my interactions with Aerowyn and Aydan. Both were legends that interested him in some manner.

Other than that, only three instances really surprised him. The fact that I had such close interactions with the Dragons in the past. However, he understood that given their longevity, which is even more well known than Elves, that many would likely remember me. Thus, Dryritt’s respect that he showed me. I also had to explain that despite my magical garments in the past, Dragon eyes are very keen and magical in nature.

His second question dealt with Thana. “Do you believe she is still behind everything to this day?”

“I think the Demons hold a grudge. Those that were present in some manner in the past likely hate me quite a bit. Injuring their Queen is something I doubt they ever expected. Thana is…” I trailed off for a moment before looking down.

“She’s?” Greigh prodded after a moment.

A sigh escaped my lips. “She is the strongest foe I have ever faced. In terms of power alone, she is terrifying, but she has subdued multiple Demon Lords to work under her. Not having infighting is surprising. That in itself speaks of her strength.” Rubbing old wounds, a frown formed on my lips. “The truth is, neither of us was prepared for the other back then. She is likely stronger than I know.”

“That’s concerning.”

I quirked a brow at that. “You think?” Was my sarcastic response.

He nodded. “Usually.” Greigh replied absentmindedly. “Do you plan on ruling Lestrania?” The question had a nervous undertone.

“…No.”

“Then what do you plan on doing?”