"Well, I am back and have your equipment fully assembled. It is outside and ready for you to set off, Fallon said to Alaisdair. "We must go over the pack, ensuring everything is in order.
Then, Alaisdair spits out the questions in rapid fire."Do you want me to set off now? Can I be back before dark? Should this wait until tomorrow?"
The King had been silent, listening to the exchange. "Alaisdair, I trust Fallon's instinct in seizing the day and righting situations as quickly as possible. I told you he is my first in command, and you were under his orders."
"Son," the King continued, "Alaisdair, you must accomplish this hunt today. The King of Griffith expects his Queen back along with the cub/chick - 'yesterday' means we must make it happen today. He has the nerve to threaten war, and we consider it credible."
"He is the most tenacious of all, which is why they are renowned for being the gatekeepers of the kingdoms," the King continued, "I, myself, expect my staff to obey orders, but I avoid war at all cost. We lost too many of our young in the war, and I have no stomach for more lives lost, but we must contain the monsters!"
"Fallon, do you have anything to add to what I have already said, or are you ready for Alaisdair to get the orders and directions to the lair?"
"No, Sire, you have covered the critical points, and now time is of the essence. A successful hunt will be made today if Alaisdair, our Monster Hunter, seeks and accomplishes his task. He can do this, and we should have a celebratory party tonight for a job well done."
"I bid you safety and swiftness in your task.
Thank you, son. I shall see you this evening," said the King.
Fallon saluted the King and said, "I shall see you, anon."
"Thank you, Sire, for your blessing. I shall see you tonight." Alaisdair, again, bowed after he saluted.
The King retired to his den, where Fallon's wife awaited the news of Alaisdair to take back to the young Monster Hunter's mother.