Cruelest Fate

"Is there something you need?" asked Arthur again after the three did not answer. Then, they snapped out of their daze, and Zonas Mantra cleared his throat.

"Everyone is worried about you, sir," said Zonas with ultimate respect. He seemed to forget that Arthur was less than a third of his age. "Empress Ai wanted to ask some things about her ruling practices, and I wanted to ensure you were fine."

"Worry less, good knight," said Arthur with a smile. "I am the last person to be worried about, but I appreciate the sentiment. I can tell that you aren't lying."

"I have sworn to follow you ever since you saved me in the Light Palace," said Zonas as he bowed. Then, he glanced at Ai, who was staring at Arthur Silvera with an expression that could not be understood. "Empress Ai? You can talk to him now."