Its illegal to bring monkeys across the border, said another guard.
Arthur erupted. The notion! Is it not clear I had no idea he was there? Take him! Kill him for all I care, just get him away from my work.
Hes running for the hut! said one of the guards.
The guards footsteps moved away in pursuit of the shrieking Malben. Oland felt a sharp tug at his leg.
Go, said Arthur, yanking Oland towards him, grabbing him roughly under the arm as he staggered down from the back of the cart. He handed him a small roll of tarred canvas. For shelter, now run. Run, Oland.
Oland quickly gained his footing, then locked eyes briefly with Arthur. In that one moment, he felt the full force of his encouragement. He whispered his thanks to him, then sprinted for the bushes. He knew he should keep moving, but instead, he waited, unable to leave without knowing that Arthur and Malben were safe. He crouched behind a tree and watched as one of the guards broke away from the others to return to Arthur.
What is your business in Dallen? he said.
What was my business, you mean, said Arthur. My business, now, is to return to Decresian; my fabric has been spoiled by a pest, and I have important work to take care of at Castle Derrington.
Ah, yes, said the guard. Of course. After all, you are the personal tailor to Villius Ren. His loyal and faithful servant