Chapter 49: Scuffle
"Calm down, Reymond," Reid said gently, placing a hand on his brother’s shoulder. He turned to Kelar. "Then tell us, why do you believe this is the best course of action, Sir Kelar?"
Kelar circled the two princes like a lion inspecting prey. "It’s simple. The farmers and livestock breeders in Lily Town will surely try to resume their lives. But whether they continue exporting to us depends on how we treat them now. If we send help, show compassion, and stand by them... they’ll remain loyal. If we ignore them, they may look elsewhere, even to the Empire. Unlikely, yes. But in uncertain times, no possibility should be dismissed."
The king coughed, then waved a hand weakly. "Your idea of buying the town is absurd. They’ll never accept it."
"Exactly," Kelar replied, arms stretched wide. "Their refusal even while under our rule shows they’re even less likely to sell themselves to other nations. It proves their loyalty."
Edward stepped in, raising a brow. "So this was just a test of their allegiance?"
"Yes, of course. If they had accepted, that would have benefited us. But in our current situation, it’s more important to confirm where their loyalty lies."
The king leaned back, coughing again, before rasping out another order. "Hmph... if that’s the case where is my daughter? Send her to Lily Town immediately. Give her some gold for the townsfolk. And you, Reymond, investigate the tower. Bring back something useful."
"Yes, Father," Reymond answered promptly.
"Princess Erika is currently in Orchid Town," Reid interjected gently. "That town was also recently attacked."
"Call her back!" the king snapped. "Lily Town is far more important. Orchid Town only sells flowers."
"Yes, Father!" Reid bowed without protest.