Lucia's Point of View

Depths of the Hollow Forest

“Are we not going to discuss what we just saw?” Alwin whispered carefully since Rock and Marina were nearby.

“Alwin-“ I began but was instantly cut off.

“Is there a point in discussing it?” Greigh asked. “Unless Arthur gives us some answers, we can only assume that’s what he really looks like. Even then, it’s only an assumption. It could be something else entirely.”

Cassidy rubbed the back of her neck. “The wolves said he wasn’t a god or demon…”

Aydalia quickly chimed in. “And now we’re supposed to believe what wolves say? The same ones that attacked?” She sighed. “It’s true that he’s different, but I don’t think he’s a demon. Honestly, I don’t know what he is.”

“He’s Arthur.” I stated firmly, and the group turned to me. “Just Arthur. The same as always.”

“I like this one.” Marina said from behind me.

“This just makes him even more fascinating. Studying him would be a great way to pass the time, but I have been forced to keep my distance for some time now.” Ayda commented.

Alwin sat down, and I helped him. “Whatever he is, no one is going to be studying him. Hopefully, he’ll finally be willing to answer some questions.”

Rubbing his back, I added, “He will be. Arthur promised we would talk. I don’t think he would lie to me.” A smile came to my lips. “He knows my mom! Maybe he even knows who my father is.”

To my surprise, Alwin scoffed at that, which was promptly followed by his mother smacking him. Albeit rather gently, but enough to come across as a warning. That was confusing to me. Although I was unable to question him as the Druid moved forward.

“I’ve seen Arthur like this once before.” She then gestured to me. “When he thought you died.” Camoa stated seriously. “Perhaps he had no choice but to transform, given how tired he is?”

Ziah nodded in agreement. “Possibly, but is it possible that form is just some manner of armor he puts on?”

Greigh shook his head. “That chirping was the same as when he was at the top of Helmsforth. When he returned to confront Arceana, his voice was distorted even more so than it was this time.”

My brows furrowed at that. “Arthur confronted Arceana? About what?” I inquired, and all eyes locked on me. “Me?”

Many exchanged glances. “I think it would be best for Arthur to finish talking with whoever is in the hole.” Camoa stated.

Cass sighed. “We don’t even know who’s down there.”

“Not to mention, do any of us have a clue what he’s doing?” Alwin groaned in a frustrated tone.

“He’s talking to Aydan Farro.” I told them, and they all looked at me like I was crazy. “You know, The Great Sage Aydan?”

Ayda was the first to reply. “That is simply impossible. The Great Sage has been dead for millennia, and his name is-“

Her mother cut her off. “Aydan Farro is his name, Ayda.” Aydalia told her. “We are his descendants. His, and Queen Varvara’s. The blood of Elven Royalty runs through our veins.” Then she sighed at her children’s expressions. “If Lucia says he’s speaking with Aydan, I believe it. He was the most powerful Elf in existence. If anyone could do it, he could.”

“She’s not wrong, you know…” Our collective attention turned to the lake that held Marina. “They’re both technically our fathers. With their energy and magic combined, we were created.” She then rested her arms on land as she hummed playfully. “I must say, some of you are taking this far better than others.” Her eyes then landed on me with her usual smirk. “Something on your mind, Lucia?”

I opened my mouth to reply, but Arthur’s voice carried across the lake from the hole. “To all members of the Farro family,” He began. “Come down the hole! Someone would like to meet you!” Said members looked at each other before he continued. “Also, Lucia! Have her come down as well!”

Aydalia looked at her kids, who seemed unsure at best. “Do you really think we can say no?” She asked them.

“Breeze,” I turned to the wind guardian as he floated above us. “Would you be so kind?”