Arthur's Point of View

Pendragon Estate

“A dragon?” Breeze repeated, and I nodded. “I’ve never had the opportunity to test myself against a dragon, but I assume I might have a chance in the near future…”

A sigh escaped my lips. “The Dragons know me, and I’m hoping they’ll be more willing to talk after Dryritt’s trip here. I’d like to send you as an ambassador.”

The room went quiet for a moment. “Uh…” Ziah let out slowly. “Is that safe?”

“The air behind the Volcanic Curtain is toxic. It’s filled to the brim with ash and sulfur. I thought about sending Rock given his nature and near immunity to fire, but his lack of communication skills made me decide otherwise. Besides, I need him for something else.” I then gestured to Breeze. “But for someone who can literally manipulate the air/wind around him, he is the best option.”

Breeze looked down. “You make very interesting points. Given what we know, it would seem I am the best option besides yourself.” He commented, and I nodded in agreement. “You’ve been thinking about this for quite some time, haven’t you?”

I gave him a nod. “I have. Marina seeking out Crawlana makes sense given her nature, and you trying to make contact with the Dragons seems like our best option. They don’t like Elves, and I’m pretty sure they hate the Priestesses, so that leaves our choices extremely limited.”

“What will Rock be doing? He could come with me if-“ Breeze started, but I quickly cut him off.

“Another project will be underway soon. Rock is going to be helping me locate resources.” I looked at the miniature version of Rock that had separated from his main body as he rolled along my floor as a small boulder. “Given that he is a golem made from earth, who can manipulate the earth, his helping in locating valuable metals and minerals will be indispensable.”

Alwin seemed to be the first one to realize what I was saying. “Run that one by us one more time?” He asked.

“Rock will be discovering, marking, and acquiring gold, silver, iron, and anything else I need.” I looked to the miniature boulder. “Can you do that?” His response was one of bouncing on the floor and thus cracking it underneath his weight. “I’m going to take that as a yes.”

“He can.” Marina informed me. “However, I don’t see why you’re on the fence about who should receive your orb. Breeze should obviously take it due to the Dragon’s nature. If anyone might need help, it’ll be him. I’ll be in my natural element.” She said firmly. “It’s doubtful anything would be able to harm me.”

“Not necessarily.” Breeze quickly cut in.

“What do you mean?” Lucia asked as she had been watching the exchange.

Alwin answered her for Breeze. “While Marina might have the upper hand given that she will be surrounded by water, Breeze is going to a place where they know Arthur. More specifically, they know Mordred, and they respect him. Even knowing little about the Dragons, I’d say it’s more likely that he is turned away, or forcefully escorted out of their lands.” The Elven General explained.

Greigh played off the Elf. “Whereas Marina is going to a place that was able to hide the Leviathan. We also know even less about the Seafolk given their isolation. There are far more unknowns trying to locate Crawlana compared to going to The Dragonlands.” He expanded.

“I have to agree with my son and the Captain.” Aydalia chimed in. “If something happens to Breeze, we’ll at least know where to look. Arthur, or even Rock, will be able to head to the Dragonlands.” She then gestured to Marina. “However, if something happens in the Middle Ocean, only Arthur will be able to look for you. The Ocean is vast, and it will be exceedingly difficult to locate you, if not entirely impossible.”

“But-“ Marina tried, but was cut short as Aydalia continued.

“Less is known about the Seafolk or their abilities. Sightings, and information about them is too inconsistent to be certain about anything.” Aydalia said. “The safest course of actions would be to give the orb to Marina. She’ll likely be able to use it better than Lucia in a place where others will also be in their natural habitat.” She finished while looking at me.

Marina looked distressed as she looked at Breeze while Lucia spoke. “I see. I’m surprised you all thought of that.” Lucia turned to me after she looked at Alwin and Greigh. “Did you already think of all this?”

I shrugged before I nodded. “More or less. Breeze will likely be safer given that the Demons have refused to go near the Dragonlands. He can also manipulate air, which is going against fire if used correctly.” My gaze then shifted to Marina as I grabbed Defiance and plucked the orb out. “The Ocean likely isn’t as safe as it should be. If something like the Leviathan was able to hide, I’d rather be cautious about what else might lurk in those depths.” Holding at the orb to her, Marina eyed it.

After a moment, she sighed as she slowly reached out and took the orb. “Very well. I will take it.” Marina relented.

“It’s probably for the best anyway.” Breeze told his sister.

“Why’s that?” She inquired.

“I don’t have hands, so using it would’ve been annoying, and I definitely didn’t want to have it strapped to me.” Breeze answered.

The room went quiet at that before I spoke. “Would you believe me if I told you that you not having hands never even crossed my mind?”