"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."
