To think that’d be the first thing you'd ask.0

Ian glanced at Lucia, who seemed to have been itching with curiosity, before turning his attention back to Count Graham. The Count's blue eyes, which had grown noticeably colder, were now fixed on Lucia.0

Eventually, he answered in a calm, measured tone. "Yes. We serve the noble and valiant Prince Hyked."0

"As I thought." Lucia let out a quiet sigh. "So His Highness really is alive. All this time, protecting the people of the Empire."0

"You will come to understand His Highness's nobility firsthand. After all, you two are now residents of this city." Though his words seemed important, the intensity in his eyes quickly vanished, replaced by their typical emptiness.0

He glanced at Ian, who showed neither surprise nor any change in expression, before continuing. "I will not entertain any further questions about His Highness. He is not someone to be spoken of so carelessly."0

It was clear that the Count’s loyalty ran deep. Even Diana seemed to share that sentiment.0

An unwavering allegiance, huh?0

Well, if their survival in this maelstrom was due to the Prince's leadership, such loyalty was only natural. While Ian mulled over the likelihood that the Wolves were undoubtedly the Prince's guard, Lucia spoke up again.0

"May I ask one more questio...0