Kheri's Point of View

Dwarven Deserts

We were getting closer to the coast. Arthur had stayed silent for most of the trip. However, there was an edge to his tone and demeanor whenever he asked for something. Elincia and Typhon would usually ask me to check in on him. So, when I was out scouting, I’d usually keep an eye on him as I came and went.

With only a day or so left till we reached the coast, we’d be able to depart on a ship. Everything was already set up thanks to one of Captain Harlow’s crew. It may not be ideal with no chance to rest, but returning to Lestrania would take a bit. Going by sea would take several weeks, if not months. However, once we got close enough, I’d likely send someone to inform Priestess Arceana of our return.

It'd been almost two weeks since everything with the Dwarves had been settled. They had been saved, and we were one step closer to home. Although Arthur seemed to be very anxious for some reason. The man seemed distracted despite being left alone. It concerned me after what had happened when he awoke. Other than that, everything was going fine. At least, until Arthur startled everyone.

I heard Arthur’s voice carry across the dunes. “Dwar!!!” He shouted suddenly.

Many were startled by the suddenness of it. “What in the world?” Elincia asked, confused.

Both she and Lord Typhon looked to me. “Is Arthur okay?” He inquired.

Standing, I replied. “I will go check.”

Taking to the air, I immediately headed to the middle of the caravan. My eyes saw an Elephant moving up the line with Dwar on top. The Dwarven General looked both curious and frustrated. I suppose being summoned in such a manner would be aggravating, if not insulting. Landing on the cart, Arthur’s head instantly whipped to me.

“Leave.” He told me firmly.

“I-“

Cutting me off, Arthur repeated himself. “Leave.”

“Are you okay?” Instead of responding, he just looked at me. “I know you’re doing better, Arthur. Your energy isn’t entirely back, but you shouldn’t be acting like this.”

“I’d like to have a private discussion with the Dwarven General before we part ways.” A shimmer emanated from his eyes. “Private, Kheri.” He repeated.

Arthur’s attitude towards me had changed since I poked and prodded him. I had taken advantage of his state, and we both knew it. This was the end result. He was indifferent at times like these.

Giving him a nod, I replied. “Understood.”

I left promptly as Dwar slowly approached. Looking back, things could’ve been worse, but I’d rather it be this way. Better me than someone else. Specifically, Lord Typhon or the Priestess. Glancing over my shoulder revealed General Dwar sliding down his elephant and onto Arthur’s wagon. He looked rather serious, which made me concerned.

Dwar's Point of View

Dwarven Deserts

“You summoned me?” I inquired as he looked at me.

Arthur took a deep breath and answered. “I am sorry for calling you like that.” I quirked a brow at that as he continued. “However, I have a few questions for you if you’d be willing to answer them.”

I sat down and nodded. “It certainly depends on the question, but I shall do my best and will inform you otherwise should the need arise.”

What questions could a man like him ask me? “You’ve been by the Queen’s side for quite some time, yes?”

My brows furrowed at that. “Yes.” I replied cautiously. “Is there something you wish to know about the Queen?”

“Not exactly.” His response was soft. “Being the General of Vithari, I imagine you are privy to more information than most. Second, only to the King and Queen, I suspect.”

“Yes.” My jaw tightened at what he might ask and what he might do should I refuse to answer.

“And I imagine you know about the previous King and Queen as well? Possibly even before them?”

“Sir, whatever it is you’re getting at, I’d like you to just come out with it.”

To my surprise, Arthur steepled his fingers together and rested his forearms on his knees. “Do you know of any High Elves other than the Priestesses and Lucia?”

I blinked at that. “That is not what I was expecting.” Gesturing to him, I answered earnestly. “To my knowledge, those are the only three High Elves know of.”

His eyes sharpened as he tilted his head before he spoke again. “Then let’s change the question.” Arthur kept his eyes locked on mine. “Was there ever a time when Arceana arrived in Vithari unannounced? Perhaps without even visiting the King and Queen?” Before I could answer, he asked another question. “Did she look slightly different or behave strangely?”