6 The Kings Return

The father of Arthur and Artemis arrived, riding a majestic stag with antlers resembling a king's crown.

He was a striking figure: long-haired, with piercing red eyes, and a commanding presence accentuated by a manly mustache.

His imposing stature could intimidate anyone who faced him.

Following him was a group of soldiers he commanded, carrying the flag of Chyros Desi. The flag bore the emblem of a lion exhaling flames, symbolizing the power and prestige of their kingdom.

This grand entrance not only showcased the King's regal bearing but also the reverence and respect he commanded from his people and the soldiers under his leadership.

As the King passed by, everyone he encountered bowed deeply, their actions reflecting the unique presence of their monarch, filled with respect and pride.

As the King walked, his gaze first fell upon Arthur.

He paused briefly and patted his stag mount to keep it steady.

The people around, including Arthur, remained bowed in deference, maintaining their posture of respect in the presence of their ruler.

This moment highlighted the deep-rooted tradition and reverence embedded within the kingdom, showing the profound respect accorded to the King by his subjects.

A soldier approached the King to take his helmet, and the King then slowly made his way to where Arthur stood. 

"Rise, my friends," he greeted everyone who had remained bowed. 

The people promptly complied, their faces lighting up with smiles and joy as they looked upon their King.

Soon after, Artemis eagerly greeted his father. 

"Welcome home, Father!" he exclaimed, radiating happiness at his father's return. 

The King affectionately patted Artemis, expressing his gratitude and delight to see his son still vibrant and spirited, despite being aware of Artemis's ongoing health concerns. 

Artemis couldn't contain his excitement and began to share with his father about their visit to the training grounds earlier that day. 

"Today, Erica and I went to the training ground to watch Arthur spar," he started.

However, before Artemis could continue boasting about Arthur's performance, their attention was diverted by Raze, Arthur's cute pet hound, who excitedly ran towards them. 

"Shh, quiet, Raze! Stop it boy, not now please" Arthur quickly tried to calm his enthusiastic pet.

"He'll make a fine hound one day!" the King commented as he approached Arthur and his pet, Raze. 

Arthur immediately greeted his father, while Erica also bowed again, holding her gown.

"Lift up your head, young girl," the King said to Erica, indicating she needn't bow any further. 

He then approached and petted Arthur's hound, Raze, who seemed to instantly warm up to the King's presence.

This interaction highlighted the King's approachable and kind nature, not only towards his subjects but also towards their companions, like Raze. 

It also showed the respect and reverence that even the younger members of the court, like Erica, held for the King.

"The capital rejoices at your safe return, Your Grace," Arthur greeted his father.

The King looked at Arthur, his face reflecting pride in his son. 

He moved closer to Arthur and whispered something significant. 

"War is coming, my boy. We must make ready." Arthur's face showed determination to serve their kingdom, and he sought confirmation from his father about the severity of the situation.

"Come to the throne room. We will talk there," the King replied, indicating the need for a more private and confidential setting. 

This response suggested the gravity of the information and the King's desire to avoid causing undue alarm or allowing sensitive details to become public prematurely.

Before departing to join the Queen, the King gave Arthur a firm pat on the chest, a gesture signifying his pride in Arthur's evident determination. 

This moment also indicated that the King was well-informed about Arthur's recent achievements, including his victory in the training combat against Lord Commander Van.

The King's acknowledgment of Arthur's progress and accomplishments served as a powerful affirmation of Arthur's growing skills and potential as a warrior. 

It was a meaningful exchange between father and son, reflecting the King's awareness and appreciation of Arthur's efforts and successes.

Following the departure of the King towards the throne room, another commander promptly issued orders to the soldiers. 

He dismissed them, instructing them to return to their respective posts and continue with their individual drills.

This quick shift back to routine duties highlighted the discipline and structure within the kingdom's military ranks. 

The soldiers' prompt obedience to the commander's orders underscored the efficiency and order maintained within the armed forces, ensuring readiness and organization even amidst significant events such as the King's return.

Arthur waited a few minutes to allow his parents some time to talk before deciding to head to the throne room, as instructed by his father. 

Erica joined him on his way, intending to return to her own quarters.

"Is trouble brewing?" Erica asked with concern, noticing Arthur's serious expression.

"I'm not sure, I need to speak with Father," Arthur replied, still uncertain about the nature of the discussion awaiting him with the King. 

His response reflected the gravity of the situation and his anticipation of possibly significant developments that might impact the kingdom.

As Arthur and Erica walked, towards the throne room he encountered a man carrying a heavy load of apples.

One of the apples fell and rolled towards Arthur.

The man hurried over, struggling under the weight of the apples. Notably, he had a sword mark on his neck, a scar indicating he was an outcast — individuals not blessed with a good life, often living as slaves or servants under the command of their owners.

"Forgive me, Lord Arthur! I pray I do not concern yourself with this bungling cur!" The owner of the outcast hurriedly approached Arthur, apologizing for the dropped apple incident.

"Bow to him, you fool!" the owner sharply instructed the outcast, emphasizing the need to show respect to Arthur.

This interaction highlighted the rigid social hierarchy and the expectations of deference towards nobility within the kingdom. 

It also shed light on the harsh reality faced by the outcasts and the demanding nature of their servitude under their owners.