Ocean's Breath Plateau scarabs

His companion listed man names, some that sounded familiar, others that he would note to inquire about later. He listened to the man's story with a wistful smile, the bell's reverberations echoing through his mind.

I must confess, Eminence, I find myself somewhat envious of your blessings, though it brings me joy to learn of the prestige you've cultivated, he responded, his voice touched with admiration. Ambition is indeed a quality to be admired.

Ah, no, dear me, I wasn't of royal descent, the man hastened to clarify, his ears flicking forward in surprise. Not by blood, at any rate... I never knew my father, and my mother was a half-breed—hardly the stuff of nobility.

I ascended to what one might loosely term aristocracy solely because the man who took us in took a liking to me. Together, he and I were able to build our own little kingdom, Machi explained, his expression caught between nostalgia and a shadow of pain.

As for how I arrived in the desert, he paused, turning to his companion with a devilish smirk. I daresay you'll have to pry that tale from me over dinner, won't you? He asked cheekily, daring a playful nudge of the red priest's shoulder.

And what of you, Highness? Machi inquired, his tone thoughtful. Have you ever considered returning to your family's embrace? Perhaps to showcase the fruits of their sacrifice?