Star Eater-Chapter 523 -

Arthur's Point of View

Pendragon Estate

"I think your talk of scrying into the future is more important." Ayda stated as she walked in, set down a small box, and opened it. "However, this is the component you were hoping for." Inside was a white crystal or gemstone of some kind.

I gave her a forced look. "Hope is such a strong word."

Ayda rolled her eyes. "This is the solution you were looking for. Try putting your energy into the crystal catalyst."

Grabbing it reluctantly, I did as instructed before it glowed a bright blue to match my energy. "Okay. Now what?"

"Obviously, we need to run some tests. I know it works with magic, so it will be more focused on how long your energy lasts while it is being used to sustain the Succubae."

"Lovely." I replied dryly.

"Yes. It is." Ayda confirmed. "Once these tests are done, I will acquire more crystals for you to charge. As for your train, you would be better off asking Greigh or Ziah. I was helping Cass with her runes for the last several weeks."

"Okay, first of all, rude. Second, I'm pretty sure I put you on that project for a reason."

She shrugged. "Cass put me on a different project, and no offense, but Cass is a little more important to me than you. I was concerned about her safety. Especially given that she went out of her way to look into runes." Ayda gestured to me. "You left. She was constantly at The Rainy Helm. I was going to help her even if it meant using runes. Her logic was sound."

"Logic or not, doing something highly illegal without me around doesn't seem like the best idea."

"Arthur!" Aydalia said in shock. "I don't think that's the point you're trying to make!"

"Uh, talking about looking into the past and future clearly isn't legal, so I can't exactly lead by example. I'd prefer I was there, given the graphic nature of which things were done. Given what Rennal told me, I think the runes should've been done under someone's supervision. At least to have someone as a backup aside from Rennal, who stumbled into the role. Which is something else we need to address." I added. "Specifically, something I will be addressing with Cass."

The young Elf shrugged. "By all means, address away, but it is permanent."

Aydalia cleared her throat as I stared uncomfortably at her daughter. "Back to the topic at hand." She began as she tried to change the fact that Ayda was being extra bitchy. "These potions you wish to try, why the sudden interest?"

I slowly turned from Ayda to her mother. "Not that any of you likely know this, but I'm planning a summit. A meeting of all the world's leaders. The Druids and Dwarves are already on board. I can probably get the Dragons involved, and Lestrania is a given since I will be involved personally. If that many are involved, the Northern Kingdoms, the Beast Kingdom, and the Seafolk Kingdom."

Those in the room looked at me, surprised. "Um... Why?"

"Because this world fucking sucks?" I offered back. "The Demons are literally running around, and no one is doing anything about it except for me!" Then I waved off the obvious follow-up. "And no, Arceana's poor attempt to send Alwin and Lucia doesn't count."

"And Kine." Ayda added.

"Yeah, him too." I agreed. "And everyone else who died. The truth is, they were sent out to die. Most Demons that've been running around are Ghouls. Could Alwin handle a Ghoul? Yes, but not with him worrying about everyone else present." Crossing my arms, I continued. "It was a stupid plan with little afterthought. Given that neither Alwin nor Lucia chose to challenge Arceana's order concerns me. However, I also know about throwing oneself into your work." I shrugged simply. "I did it going to Vithari, so I can't judge, but still... You know, make better choices and all that."

"You're an inspiration, Father." Marina said sarcastically.

I chose to ignore that sarcasm. "Of course I am. I'm me."

Ayda actually frowned at that. "You left to avoid dealing with-"

"Let's not get into that. I had more legitimate reasons for going to Vithari. One, Elincia and Arceana dropped the ball. Neither stepped up, which meant that I had to. Plus, it gave me the opportunity to get some sweet rewards." I told the group.

"Such as?" Aydalia inquired curiously.

"I'll let you know as soon as I get them. Anyway, we are way off track. The potion is more reckless curiosity at this point. There are other, more important things to deal with before trying to hold a summit of the world's bitch ass leaders."

"I can already see this summit going swimmingly." Ayda commented.

"Love the vote of confidence."

Camoa finally started picking up her mess. "Looking into the future is doable, but it will take some time. Your other projects will likely need your attention before the option is even available to you. We can discuss this more then." The Druid told us.

I shrugged. "Works for me. Doubt the potion will work correctly anyway."

"Then why do you want it?" Aydalia asked in a serious tone. "It doesn't seem worth the risk."

"Because we've been caught off guard a few times by Thana's forces. I'd like a heads up if I can get one. The potion might be a dud, it might not work correctly on me or even melt my internal organs, but I'm willing to take that chance." I explained back in a tone matching hers. "She got a warning in the East. Doesn't mean she'll listen to it. Besides, there's clearly more to worry about than just her. I just wish I knew who all is against us. A male Hight Elf attacking us in Vithari proves that."

On that dark note, the room went quiet. "So," Aydalia started as she turned to Camoa. "How long until you get that potion made?"