Chapter 382: Why would you care? (2/2)

He fired question after question, clearly distraught by the shocking revelation.

The old man, Sir Arthur didn't mind it though, he looked at the silver-haired boy and simply nodded.

”We have long since been aware of the empire's hunger for our lands. After all, our lands provide the easiest and safest route into the central section of the continent. It's not even that hard to even realize this fact… your highness.” He nodded, smiling at his last words.

Obviously, a man of his stature would recognize the estranged crown prince, especially if he decides to flaunt his face without trying to hide…

Though surprised, the matter was way too grave for Drake to care about being recognized. His face retained its scowl as he asked for more.

”How sure are you about this matter? What does the king plan to do? If an invasion is imminent, why is it that he only sent a single general? Where's your army, Roaring Lion?”

”Calm down, Young Prince.” For the first time since they sat down, Sir Arthur revealed a thin smile, kindly urging the fervent boy to take his seating, although clearly futilely.

Drake was way too agitated about the sudden news to be able to just sit back. Even though he refused to stay at the Palace and act as an obedient little prince, and was on his own little journey to reunite with his siblings, he still cared for the land he was supposed to lord over in the future. He felt an obligation to protect his future citizens.

”We are fairly certain about the matter. The Empire's hunger for more and more territory is clear. It was never a secret. However, their lust would have been kept in check if not for the fact that just recently, the old emperor was killed by his own son and was replaced on the throne. That bastard rekindled the people's thirst. Even as we speak, their armies continue to gather at the foot of the Soralite Mountain Range at our eastern borders.” He frowned, almost spat as he spoke.

”Even so…” Drake was still doubting the credibility of such news. After all, whilst the empire was much bigger than them, even if they were to reach their capital, they wouldn't be able to roll over the kingdom's combined armies. Why then, would they still do such a foolish endeavor.

Did the Emperor perhaps have some sort of trump card at his disposal? Some secrets that gave them the confidence to push on?

”Why would he risk so much? Even if he ultimately comes out as the victor and conquers this land, he will have no hope to push any further, and I refuse to believe that the Holy Kingdom to the North would stand still.”

”I still don't understand where we come into the picture. Me and my friend, Galina, have little to do with these matters.”

Suddenly, interrupting the heated discussion of the two, Aiden's voice came from the side. Looking indignant, nonchalant he looked at the two.

”What?! What do you mean you have nothing to do…”

”I said, little. Personally, I only care about my family and for my friends. As to what happens to this land, who will sit upon a throne far from us 'commoners', I cannot care.”

The already disturbed Drake looked at his friend with a look that showed that he couldn't even process what he had just heard.

Sara could only helplessly smile, already having an understanding of this mysterious boy's nature.

While Scarlet was also somewhat similar in mind to Aiden, she still shook her head with a wry look on her face. She would, without a doubt, support his brother, no matter what her deepest thoughts on the matter would be.

For Lily, he was just like Aiden, wouldn't bat an eye if this whole city would be destroyed, as long as those that she cares about would be safe. While she was good-natured, similar to Aiden in this matter, she now understood how stupid and childish she was before. She would not risk herself for such stupid reasons ever again.

Sir Arthur looked at the group, studying each of their emotions silently, before finally speaking up as he looked at the golden-eyed youngster with a growing smile.

”You know, Aiden, your question is actually quite good.” He nodded, grabbing the attention of everyone in the room once again.