Cedar was both elated and unnerved to see two more of the rescue team down here with him.

His mind reeled with scenarios that could spawn this eventuality:

Were they fleeing?

Did they come down to get him? (Was it because he didn't come back right away like a called dog? Don't they realize this is some serious shit we're in?)

Something else entirely?

Over the top of all of those thoughts, (why NOW, when I can't afford to answer or act like I recognize them? If I break my cover, the villagers will panic for sure!) He thought anxiously to himself.

He gave the prince a big eyed Puppy faced look, desperate for him to play the act he desperately needed him to do...