The Deep Waters

"Purple Woman."

Arthur's expression remained calm. Countless thoughts flashed through his mind, but he maintained the same look as before, showing no sign of anything amiss.

Before him, the young man who seemed to be the High Priest wore a respectful expression. Maidel watched him closely, earnestly answering his questions.

Obviously, he still had no idea that he had inadvertently revealed everything about himself. He was still gazing anxiously at Arthur, afraid that he might accidentally offend him.

Arthur pondered for a moment, then looked at Maidel, whose expression was respectful but whose heart was uneasy, and smiled. "Sorry for the trouble."

"I've come from far away, and it's been a long time since I've had anything to eat. I wonder if I might have a meal here?"

His expression calm, he spoke softly.

"Of course, of course."

Maidel nodded repeatedly without a moment's hesitation. "It would be our honor to have you dine with us, my lord."

"Please rest for a while. We'll prepare something right away."

With a respectful expression, he spoke softly to Arthur, then turned and left to make the preparations.

A little while later, at noon, a meal was served. It wasn't lavish, but it was decent.

The meal consisted of some local wild vegetables, plenty of fresh fish, and meat from a few wild beasts.

It wasn't lavish, but for Maidel and the others, these were the best things they could offer.

Arthur smiled and ate the meal without hesitation. When he was finished, he spoke softly. "Thank you."

"In return, I'll give you this."

He spoke gently, then took something from his robes.

It was a beautiful silver gemstone, which seemed to contain a unique power and pulsed with a distinctive rhythm.

It had been formed from Arthur's Power Crystal. The power within