In his heart of hearts, Claudius believes that he could never leave Tephra. Ever the explorer, he prides himself on traveling all over Beqanna - though he yearns for his tropical home every second that he is away. He used to toy with the thought of leaving the jungle kingdom, the soft swish of other land's beaches playing melodically in his mind; but it was never a love he felt, even in the throes of restless youth, those distant sands not quite as enthralling as Tephra's.
Sometimes, though - sometimes he likes to tell himself a little white lie. He dreams of the black cove or the crashing North cliffs. Convinces himself he isn't wholly and completely chained by his adoration.
It's particularly relaxing to travel through the twisted, familiar paths of his childhood. The jungle is alive with spring, each of the chestnut's steps punctuated by brilliant birdsong. Claudius glances upwards, eyeing the thick canopy that shelters an intense troop of monkeys. He only catches them in shadows and glittering eyes staring from behind large leaves. Brushing past massive ferns and elephant ears, he smiles to himself, feeling warmly welcomed by his home's familiarity.
Eventually the jungle thins out to reveal lush, open space. Savior shines like the night sky in the distance, easily spotted. Claudius breaks into a trot, eager and excited to see one-half of the Tephran leaders. He calls a greeting before drawing next to the dragon-king. The orange of the lava reflects brightly in his eyes.
"Savior," he says, dipping his head. "Claudius. I'm glad to finally meet you," he pauses, casting his gaze in the opposite direction of his king, wondering if his next question might be too forward.
Still, he presses forward, "Something on your mind?"
@savior