[Malindo]... an exclusive club.
The Royal Academy's former three musketeers... oh, there were only two now, since Leonardo had been struck from their ranks.
Melon Fox and Ham Hank served under the Princess and Raphael respectively, which actually put them in the same camp.
"Oh? Ham Hank, my friend, are you really planning to go to the [Singer] star system?" Melon Fox asked, slightly surprised.
"That's right!" Ham Hank said solemnly. "My father and I have officially returned to the main family. My father learned this through private inquiries: the imperial family is very likely to move against every territory of the [Babilon] clan. This will be an excellent opportunity for me to distinguish myself."
Melon Fox had heard a few rumors as well. He knew that, at this critical juncture, those willing to fight and take risks might well win themselves a future.
For someone in Ham Hank's position, military merit was the easiest path to promotion.
His own service at the Princess's Mansion had greatly improved his standing within his family, but taking another step upward in the short term would be difficult.
"Meilong, my friend, a man should accomplish something in his lifetime. Once I've earned military merit, my father will pull the necessary strings to have me formally elevated into the Empire Nobles—a noble with real authority and territory of my own!" Ham Hank said gravely. "Your position at the Princess's Mansion is good, brother, but in the long run, it still has its limits... you should make plans early."
"I'll wait and see." Melon Fox did not reject the suggestion outright. He simply intended to play it safe.
Just then, several explosions sounded outside. One was right beyond the window of their room at the club, even causing a small disturbance, though the Star Patrol