Arthur's Point of View

Pendragon Estate

After answering questions from the three incredibly skeptical Demons, we had moved to the living room. Getting the fire going, the three spread out through the room. Not that it mattered. They knew I was keeping an eye on them. The moment they did something I didn’t like; we’d find out who’d come out on top.

“Do any of you three know who that High Elf was?” I asked as I threw another log onto the fire before I sat down in my usual chair.

“Not many of those are just wandering around.” Credo said diplomatically. “Of course,” His eyes drifted to his female companion. “There are exceptions. Sorry, but we haven’t run into any.”

“You look tired.” The High Elf commented.

I glanced at her. “I am tired. I’ve been tired, but it doesn’t matter. All of us know that a war is coming. My plan is to be far more prepared for this one.”

Pestilence seemed to be studying me. “I’m having a little trouble understanding how you’re fine at all after inhaling Demon Stone. Let alone being cut in half and having your brain partly destroyed. You can’t be killed?”

Tapping the wooden arm, I replied. “I’ve been graced with a curse.” I told him with a faux smile. “You’re right. It’s hard to believe that I didn’t die, but the truth is, I did. It just never seems to take.”

“So, you are, in every sense of the word, immortal?” Credo inquired.

“No. I can still die. There are just conditions that’ve been placed upon me. Just like how there are consequences for dying.” Rubbing my chest, I spoke. “Two thousand years ago, Thana pierced my heart with her spear made of Demon Stone. I didn’t recover well.”

All three of them looked at me like I was insane. “Right…” Credo let out slowly. “I suppose… Such a wound would take time to mend. Still, I can’t help but feel that you’re still hiding some details of your rescue of Lucia.” I quirked a brow as he sat down across from me. “Why did the Succubae call you a monster?”

“If the shoe fits…” Was my soft reply.

“Pardon?” Credo leaned in slightly.

My head shook before sighing. “This,” I gestured to myself. “Isn’t what I always look like.” Turning to Pestilence, a smirk came to my lips. “Had our little bout continued, you might’ve been able to see the Succubae’s monster.” Holding up my hand, blue lighting shot across my hand and it changed, but only for a moment. “I’m not a Human, God, or Demon.” All three were completely focused on me, or more specifically, my hand. “I was sent here with a purpose against my will. Another curse if you will.”

“Then why confront Thana? Is she your purpose?” Credo pressed.

“No. She just got in my way.” My eyes likely started to glow as the three seemed taken aback. “And she hurt me.” Closing my eyes, I sighed at the exchanged looks they gave to one another. “It’s nothing diabolical, so don’t worry. However, since I am forced to be here, I’d like to make it more peaceful.”

“Peace?” Pestilence repeated in disbelief. “Someone of your strength, and history of violence, wants peace.”

“I’ve seen the culmination of violence, and there is nothing I wouldn’t do for peace. I’m tired of all the fighting. Wondering what tomorrow will bring is supposed to be a hopeful thought, not a fearful one.” I then focused on Credo. “That being said, I know you three are busy, but your help would mean the world in future endeavors.”

Credo quirked a brow at that. “That’s quite the bold statement. I thought you didn’t trust us?”

I eyed him. “I ‘trust’ that you three despise Thana as much as I do. Given our interests, I doubt any of you would betray me for the time being. There’d be no point. Especially given how you three have been on the move ever since our prior arrangement. However, I do think some manner of communication is in order. To provide aid if needed.”

Moving behind Credo, the woman spoke. “Communication will be dealt with the next time we meet. As of right now, our movements are precise and targeted toward Thana’s forces on Crevalis.” She informed me. “Our group has no intention of any large confrontations for the moment. Charging into The Crimson Wasteland is out of the question. As such, we’ll continue to do so until your vision comes true.”

A chuckle escaped my lips. “Yeah, I doubt Thana would expect you three to show up. Although, judging from the look on her face when I showed up with Tor as he ran away, I think she was horrified of the possibility of a repeat of Klasteris.”

“Explain.” The High Elf demanded.