Arthur's Point of View

Helmsforth Skydeck

After making a few more arrangements the previous days, mainly ensuring everything would run smoothly in the coming months, I said my farewells to certain individuals. With that, we were ready to head out. Typhon, Kheri, Elincia, Ventari, and Greigh were all present as we waited for the ship to dock. Not sure how many of these ships they had, but it was surprising that they could acquire them so easily. Probably from one of the coastal cities.

We were holding a meeting while we waited. “Surely we can discuss this at a later time.” Ventari pointed out.

Elincia quickly replied. “Arthur believes we are heading to war. When do you expect us to discuss this? On the ship?”

Typhon looked up at me. “Do you really think we are heading into battle?”

“Probably.” I answered, and the two women sighed. “If the Demons have set their sights on the East, I’m expecting some manner of battle. It’ll be finding out what scale it’s on. Could be a simple skirmish, the entire continent could be in flames, or there could be a siege.” I offered. “Who can say?”

“If that’s the case, shouldn’t we be bringing more forces at our disposal?” Kheri inquired. “The Priestess is attending, so we could easily increase our-“

“Much like what happened with the Leviathan, these airships are mostly sitting ducks. Targets in the sky to be shot down.” I explained as I cut her off. “Bringing more of them won’t help. Besides, I doubt Thana will be there herself, and if she is, even better.”

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Ventari eyed me. “If we really are at war, how do you plan on saving my people?”

Quirking a brow at her, I replied evenly. “Have you met me? I’m the closest thing to a god that you’ll probably ever see.” Sarcasm leaked into my voice. “Pray to me, and all will be right with the world.”

Elincia smacked me. “Arthur.”

“What?” I asked back. “It’s true! At least I get shit done!” At Elincia’s glare, I rolled my eyes. “Fine!” I grumbled before looking at Ventari. “Words of comfort.” My words of comfort made the group blanch. “Faith. Togetherness. Friendship. Other friendly and inspiring terms.”

Elincia smacked me again. “Arthur!”

Again, I rolled my eyes before I continued. “I got a few ideas. Don’t you worry. Besides, we’re taking the Arthur express. So, we’ll find out the situation sooner than you think.”

The ship finally came into view as it began lowering to the dock. I turned to Greigh as the others picked up their things. Except for Elincia. She had guards to do that for her. Kheri and Elincia were both bringing along a few extras that I cared nothing for. Mostly just for heavy lifting or to boss around. Fun.

“Sir.” Greigh said, and I turned to him.

“Sherry has been informed of the situation. If anything arises, she may be able to help. Maybe not much, but it’s something.”

“Sir.” He wasn’t looking at me.

“I’ve also considered Drewes Leiflan’s offer. If the Duke and his wife can be of assistance to you, take it if you need it.”

“Sir!” My Captain said with a little more force.

Following his gaze, my eyes found Austin, Rennal, and Cassidy all standing there. “Tell Ziah everything I just told you as well.” I said with a tsk before giving him a quick farewell.

Moving to the newcomers, part of me expected to see Lucia here, but Arceana needed her assistance with the recovery effort. Austin ran up and wrapped his arms arounds around me. His face in my chest as he sniffled a little bit. Rennal seemed surprised at that, but it was Cassidy who just stared at me that unnerved me a little. Patting his back and returning the hug, I took a knee in front of him.

“You know I’m gonna come back. It’ll only be a few months at the longest.” I told him.

“Ya promise? We overheard ya talkin about war.” The boy said, and I grit my teeth for a moment.

A smirk then came to my lips. “Do you know how many wars I’ve been in and come out of?” He shook his head before I ruffled his hair. “Quite a few. One more, on a smaller scale won’t be anything too dangerous for me.” Then I leaned in and whispered. “I’ll also make sure to bring back a gift of sorts, okay?”

He smiled at that. “Promise?”

With a nod, I promised. “Promise.”

Rennal came up and grabbed Austin before leading him away, leaving Cassidy and I alone. “Cass-“ I began, but she cut me off.

“How are ya holdin up?” She inquired suddenly as she looked me over. “Ah know it’s been hard on ya. Especially with that hidden crown on yer head.” My eyes widened at that.