Megan's delicate face did not break into a smile at Shade's words. She studied him closely:
"Many people like to use such grand words to win the favor of naïve young girls or noble ladies full of fantasies. Witty, humorous, compassionate, with ideals and ambitions of his own—such a man is very charming in the eyes of young girls."
After speaking, she realized that this seemed to imply she was no longer young, so she asked:
"Then are you that sort of person?"
"Win favor?"
Shade glanced at her in surprise:
"I was merely thinking that perhaps someone might realize it, or look at the scene before us from the perspective of history. Years from now, this too will be a tiny reflection of civilization."
"An interesting view. Go on."
Megan nodded lightly, and Shade continued:
"The current era is a turning point for civilization. The world and life propelled by the wave of the Steam Industry are completely different from those of centuries ago. Nobles and great merchants can seize more opportunities and amass more wealth and power. Meanwhile, the people at the bottom become consumables, the basic fuel for civilization's development. And divine authority, intertwined with Kingship, plays its own unique role in this age. When all of it is condensed together, isn't it precisely the scene before us, of the poor receiving relief grain?"
The Outlander frowned slightly:
"I wonder how future generations—if there are future generations—will judge this rainy morning."
"Isn't every era of social transformation like this?"
Megan leaned against the carriage and continued asking. Shade nodded:
"Most of the time, yes. But since civilization is advancing and developing, there ought to be some changes. It cannot be the same every time. The development of civilization rises in a spiral."
Megan raised an eyebrow:
"That