The Dreamer's Fall

Chapter 12 - Finding Foster

After speaking with Kyren, Arthur continued to scan the map and familiarize himself with the names and locations of Bernish cities. While he didn't know what route the Revan levies would take, it didn't hurt to have a general understanding of the area.

Soon, a knock came from the study door.

"Come in!" Arthur shouted.

Senna entered, pushing a cart of food.

"I thought we agreed you wouldn't be serving me anymore?" Arthur asked, despite knowing how she would respond.

While he hadn't seen her earlier this morning, he did find the wash basin full of fresh water and assumed she had placed it there while he slept.

"If I'm not serving you, what would I do with my day? Laze around until the sun sets?" Senna replied as she placed the plates of food on his desk.

Arthur nodded. "Sure, lazing around is nice."

"No, thank you. I've served as a maid since I was younger than you are now. I'm good at it, and I like it."

"You know, a housewife also cleans and takes care of children. So I'm sure you'd be good at that too, and Mr. Levin seemed rather interested." Arthur paused to gauge her reaction. "What do you think of him?"

"He is... A very nice young man." Senna replied curtly.

'Looks like Levin needs to step up his game.' Arthur thought as he scooped up some eggs with his fork.

"Hey, have you seen Foster by any chance? He was supposed to meet me here this morning." Arthur suddenly asked as Senna made her way to leave.

Senna looked up and thought for a moment. "I don't think I've seen him since last night."

"Hm, ok. Please tell the guard outside to come in on your way out. I'd like to ask him a question."

Senna nodded, and the new study guard entered the room after she left.

"Young master." The guard announced with a slight bow.

"Have you seen Foster Welt today by any chance? He's the one who normally guards the study." Arthur asked innocently as he carefully watched the guard's expression.

"I haven't, young master." The guard replied.

He didn't appear to be lying as far as Arthur could tell.

"How strange..." Arthur rubbed his chin and stared off into the distance. "Who should I speak to if I wanted to find him?"

"Captain Onarr handles assignments. You can find him at the guard barracks..." The guard nervously scratched his head. "I'd take you there myself, but I'm not allowed to leave my post."

"No need. Thank you very much for your help!" Arthur replied enthusiastically, leaving the guard unsure how to reciprocate such courtesy.

"I-is that all, young master?"

Arthur nodded. "Yes, sorry for taking up your time."

The guard bowed and exited the room, leaving Arthur alone once more.

"It creeps me out when you speak like that, kid." Kyren said as he pretended to have a chill run up his nonexistent spine.

"The more people that believe I am an innocent and kind child, the better. It'll make them underestimate me whether they intend to or not."

"I know why you do it, but that doesn't make it any less creepy."

Arthur shook his head and laughed. "Anyway, it's time you start earning your keep. Go check the dungeon and see if Foster is there. Elyria has never targeted anyone other than me before, but that was because she lacked targets since I rarely speak to anyone."