Arthur walked out of the dungeon with a goofy grin on his face. He was out… and in one day, no less. The cool breeze as he walked past the windows made the feeling all the more real.
His mind raced in search of explanations as to why his father was not punishing him. Only a few hours ago, the king had suggested exile… and yet now, he was forgiven?
He turned to the king escorting him and opened his mouth to talk… then stopped. 'What if asking the king this makes him reconsider his decision?' the prince asked the being inside him.
'I was thinking the same thing. Our crime is not a simple one… We should take this blessing as it is,' his phoenix replied.
"You have something to say?" the king asked.
"Huh… no, nothing," Arthur quickly turned pale. The blood drained out of his face and he did his best to hide his thoughts.
"You were never a good liar," the king replied.
Arthur sighed, "I just… wanted to thank you. I…"