Arthur's Point of View

Pendragon Estate

“Because of your train?” Typhon asked back skeptically.

Many of the group were confused, but I sighed in response. “Nothing is ready yet, anyway. Feel free to head inside and look for rooms if you need a place to stay.” My attention then returned to the Dwarf. “Do you think there would be other Dwarves willing to help like you?”

He snorted. “I think all of the Dwarves and Druids would be behind you after what you did. We owe a large debt. One that can truly never be repaid. You saved our people, our kingdoms, and future generations. Should you ever ask for it, we would move any forest or mountain in your way.”

“That’s promising.” Typhon muttered.

“Agreed. I’m afraid I still don’t know your name, Dwarf.”

Giving me the shortest of bows of respect, he answered. “I go by Vome.”

“Vome?” I repeated, and he nodded. “Just Vome?”

“My line is dead. I’m too old to be havin kids. Vome is just fine.”

I nodded in return. “Very well. Head inside and ask for Aydalia or someone with some manner of authority.” He quirked a brow at that but shrugged and did as I instructed. “Mmh.” A hum escaped my lips as he walked off.

Allen pulled me from my thoughts. “Lady Aydalia Farro is here?”

Typhon snorted at that. “She’s working as Arthur’s secretary.”

That surprised the Captain. “A noble as a secretary. A high ranking noble at that.”

“Ranks are bullshit. They’re there to help keep order in most cases, but this is literal class segregation. Your rank of Captain is more useful than whatever title she, or any other noble, may have.”

“I see.” He replied slowly before he looked at Typhon. “You seem to have gotten even taller, Lord Delmaris.”

“Kids growing like a fucking brick shithouse.” I commented. “Anyway, do you need a place to stay, and have you made a decision?”

He quickly shook his head. “I have my own home in The Lowest Rung.”

“Oh! Where in The Slums are you located?”

“Near the mountain. Many of the crew live here, and those that don’t can stay in the barracks or room with friends.” He then placed his hands behind his back as he raised his chin. “As for your offer… I’ve extended it to many in our ranks, and several of us have decided to accept.”

“Great. Come check in periodically. Once Rock gets some time, we’ll move forward.”

“With what?” Allen asked again.

“Greatness.” Was my smug response.

Typhon rolled his eyes and groaned. “Thank you for that crystal clear answer.”

Ruffling his hair, I replied. “You’re welcome. I do my best to paint a perfect picture for you every time we’re together.” Smacking my hand, he walked off.

Allen quirked a brow at that. “Troubles, Sir?”

I glanced at him before my gaze returned to Ty. “He hasn’t entirely forgiven me for what I did.”

“…What did you do?” The Captain seemed concerned as he likely heard some rumors on his way in.

“Another time perhaps.” Motioning to the front door with a nod, I continued. “Head inside.”

“Sir.” He replied before he headed inside.

My eyes landed on Typhon for a moment before I looked down at the little mechanical elephant. Opening a portal, I placed the toy inside of it. As the portal closed, my thoughts started to shift.

I called out to my student. “Ty!” He turned to look at me. “You want to go home for the day?”

He seemed surprised at that. “Isn’t it a little early?”

Crossing my arms, I shrugged. “Maybe, but you seem disinterested. Perhaps it’d be best to take a break. You could also go see Alwin or Ayda if you want. I think they’re in the estate somewhere.”

Ty nodded at that and also went inside. My eyes followed him as he seemed weighed down by something. There have been a lot of talks I’ve been avoiding. Typhon was one of them. Arceana definitely had it coming, but she and her sister were special to him. I can only imagine the inner turmoil he might be facing.

To my surprise, it was Lucia who flew down to my side. “Are you okay?” She asked as she folded her wings to her side.

“Fine. Can’t say the same for him.” My eyes then glanced to her. “How about you? Still feeling alright?”

She smiled at that and rolled her eyes. “I told you, Arthur. I’m fine.” Lucia insisted. “In fact, I would rather enjoy it if our training sessions picked up in intensity again.”

“Mmh.” I mumbled out. “How are things going with Alwin?”

That seemed to surprise her. “You don’t usually like talking about my relationship with him…” She commented. “Normally you just call him my ‘boytoy’ and then gloss over anything about him. Did something happen?”

“No.” I answered with a shake of my head. “Just… I know how important he is to you. Same with his mother and sister.” Then I gestured to where Typhon had walked off to. “Including him, and your aunts, it seems that we have quite the dysfunctional family.”

Lucia smiled sadly at that. “Maybe for the moment we do, but I think things are getting better.” She placed a hand on my arm in a caring manner. “I’ve seen how you’re acting with all of them. I know you’re trying. Whether that be for your own reasons, or for me, I don’t know. Either way, it is appreciated, Arthur.” I didn’t reply. “Are you okay?”

“For the most part. Somewhat nervous.”