"Grandma, Diatoran is currently surrounded and attacked by several countries. Although we have won some battles in North Aridlands, the future situation isn't in Diatoran's favor. Diatoran might fall," Henry said.
"Everyone can see that. I'm asking you if you know of a way we can stay in Southlake City," Marilyn said exasperatedly.
"Diatoran is surrounded by enemies and will eventually be defeated. We might as well seek refuge in Vadesia. With that, we don't need to leave Southlake City, and the businesses under our family won't be affected." Henry told them his opinions.
Richard had taught him to say these things.
After everyone heard Henry's words, their faces darkened. They were all surprised that Henry was suggesting that they betray their country.
Immediately after, Carl scolded him loudly, "Bastard! The Stewart family isn't a powerful, noble family, but we've been in Diatoran for generations. We'll never defect to another country.
"The situation on the battlefield isn't even clear yet, yet you want to commit treason after the slightest hint of difficulty?"
"Uncle Carl, we'll die if we don't find a way out. Diatoran is surrounded by enemies, and it's evident that the country cannot defend itself against them. We might as well take this chance to pave our own path to survival," Henry said.
"Things will never end well for those who commit treason. Is Quinton Hans' death not horrible enough for you? I heard that he was beheaded, even. The idea you proposed is going to destroy the family!" Carl snapped.
"You're too cautious, Uncle Carl. The situation is clear as day. Diatoran won't succeed in defending itself against its enemies. So what if we moved to Garthram? We'll still end up dead once the enemies invade the city!" Henry argued.
"If we betray our country, the family will be met with a terrible ending. When Diatoran wins the war, the Stewart family will be wiped out!" Carl frowned.
"Uncle Carl, Grandma's the head of the family, so let's hear what she has to say." Henry was of the opinion that Marilyn would surely betray her country for the sake of survival.
After a long silence, Marilyn spoke. "Henry, your Uncle Carl is right. Although the Stewarts aren't a noble family, we can't do anything that's looked down on by the people in our country."
Marilyn was calculating and snobbish, but she was still the head of the Stewart family. When faced with things that were either right or wrong, she had her own principles.
Henry was surprised that his grandmother, who usually did whatever benefited her most, would have such a staunch attitude at a time like this.
"The situation is really bleak now, Grandma. If we don't get in touch with Vadesia soon, we'll be without a home when Diatoran is defeated!" Henry said anxiously.
"That's enough! Stop talking about that! The Stewart family can never do anything against Diatoran, or we'll have to repent for our sins in the afterlife!" Marilyn said seriously.
"This is our only chance, Grandma! If we don't seek refuge in Vadesia now, our properties will go to other people when Southlake City falls, and we'll end up homeless!" Henry had already defected to the enemy along with Richard and the others.
He didn't want to wait in Southlake City for death to befall him.
"Have you already defected to another country, you bastard?" Marilyn barked sharply.
Henry shook his head repeatedly, explaining, "No, no. The enemy hasn't attacked yet, so why would I defect to them?"
"Why are you so panicked, then? Are you lying?" Marilyn asked again.
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