Chapter 330: Chapter 330
Arthur's Point of View
Over the Middle Ocean The chapters is up by N0vEI__bin
"Oh, my." Elincia let out enthralled by the story.
"After they separated us, his father declared that I was good for his son and made sure I was to visit often."
Allen, who was completely surprised by this, commented. "So much for him being infatuated."
Ventari hummed out happily. "We were children who didn't know what love was. It wasn't until later on that we learned. Many approved of our relationship when it happened, saying that what one did not have, the other possessed."
Resting my elbows on my knees, I studied her. "Seems like the King wasn't the only one infatuated."
"If I wasn't, would I have married him and become Queen?" Ventari shot back.
I nodded. "Many would've done exactly that if they were in your position. People desire power. It's instinct. Not many would just let such an opportunity go by."
"Many said the same thing as you." I shrugged. "It was never about the title." She then gestured to Allen. "Infatuation, as you said, can go both ways." Her amusement completely faded. "Now, both my husband and my son think I'm dead."
Elincia, wanting to be overly encouraging, replied. "You don't know that."
"I've been gone for a long time with no word. If there was an investigation, it's likely they would've seen the magical squall, assumed the worst, and have either declared me missing or dead." Her fingers steepled together tightly as you could see the strain placed on her fingers. "How many months have I been gone? Would you not assume someone was dead if they disappeared without a trace?"
"Not until all the Druids are safe behind our walls!" Turning to General Dwar, I shouted. "Where is my father!?"
"He was seen going beyond the walls!" My face fell at that. "Don't worry, my Prince! The King will return with his men and the Druids!"
Another explosion rang out, and chunks of our wall started to crack. "Find the leader of these Druids and have them reinforce our walls! Their magic can help hold the line!"
My advisor bowed. "At once!" Tart left to follow my orders.
Shielding my face as a billow of dust, sand, and other debris blew into the city, I frowned. Immediately I looked overhead to make sure the ceiling wasn't collapsing. Enchantments and the magic of the earth flowed through this city, but this was a lot of magic being thrown at our walls.
Soon, a green hue took over the walls and runes. They immediately began to grow stronger than they had previously. Chanting could be heard, and I saw many Druids lined throughout rooftops or on the walls as they seemed to be strengthening our defenses. A wave of relief washed over me as the explosions sounded more distant.
The shaking subsided. "Maybe now we can get some answers." I told Dwar. "Let's go find my father."
"I'm sure the King is curious as well."
As we headed toward the entrance, we noticed that our elite guards were scattered about with the Druids. Both were heavily injured, and my heart went out to my brothers and sisters in arms. Regardless of their appearance, they were still able to bring me peace. If they were present, that meant my father was nearby as well.
Our gates closed tight, and I saw Tart speaking with some elderly looking Druid. She had darker leaves which were browning but not quite turned yet. A sign of age on their kind. My advisor seemed frustrated while the Druid shook her head sadly.
Approaching cautiously, I gave a courteous bow. "Welcome to Dwardew, my lady. I'm only sorry it was such a rough welcome."
"There has not been a more pleasant welcome that I've ever experienced, child." She bowed in return. "Thank you for coming to our aid and allowing us sanctuary."
"Of course." Then I began scanning the area. "Apologies, my lady. I'm sure my father would like to speak to you, but he may have already returned to the palace."
Both Tart and the elderly Druid looked away from me. "Speak, Tart." Dwar ordered as I merely looked at them, confused by their reactions.
My advisor kneeled in front of me and bowed deeply. "I'm truly sorry, my Prince." He looked up at me. "Your father has fallen."