"What was the hold up, Kain? Forgot something?"
"Yeah, my manners.
Was just saying thank you for a delicious meal."
"But all you had was a salad and a glass of water."
"If you're not thankful for the little things, you'll miss all the big ones."
"That's a positive way to look at it."
"What other expression can I be?"
"So, since you fled here, could you help us out?"
"What are you looking for?"
"Something fun to do, and then maybe a ride back to our Kingdom? Would really help beat walking."
"Say no more. I can't promise a ride back to your Kingdom, but I did hear that the King was sending some men to Castle of Fire. They frequent stops now and again."
"Funny.
If we have never heard of Laphate, how come Tai does?"
"He…..he must not have told you? Everyone has their own import, export."
"What do you think they're giving?"
"Darius!!!"
"What? Just asking."
"Knowlege."
"Knowledge?"
"Just the usual. Info and tactics about how better to stay united."
"How long have you been here? Feels like you're a secret spy or something."
"Hooo….Hoooo….Hooo. A spy. Me? Nah. I'm just very observant."
"Observant, I see."
"Darius, psst."
"What is it, Apple?"
"That laugh. I know I heard it somewhere, but I can't place it."
"Yeah, it's the Kings; but being so uptight as him, I'm sure his personality rubs off on everyone."
"If you say so, but I'm warning you."
"...When are you not?
Come on, Kain. I want to see what fun you have around here."
"You're on."
".....Your Majesty."
"Step forth."
"We have news of what you requested."
"Requested?
Out, out, out.
Give us the room please.
Out."
"Yes, your Majesty."
"Well, don't just stand there. Spill it."
"As you know, Dropfarra is without a King, and Castle of fire without a Queen."
"What about my boy? Is he in?
"That's just it."
"He wasn't able to convince them?"
"No, no, no. On the contrary. He was very successful."
"Then what is it? Why bother me with the romance?'
"I'm just saying. Why worry about legends of old, when we can take advantage of what is?"
"My son is already in place."
"Shouldn't be hard to…..you know....change that."
"What are you saying?
These Kingdoms are no concern of mine. We have just been monitoring and tracking. Their affiliations are their own, and theirs alone."
"But they don't have to be.
Think about it. A man on the inside; have them crumble from within?
You won't have to monitor anymore. Instead, you could manage."
"As you said, Tai is looking for a wife, not a son."
"Yes, but the news I heard is that he has a daughter."
"Hooo….Hooo….hooo.
Boy, you're giving me an ugly dream......and I like it.
Send word at once. Tell Henry their has been a change of plans."