Philip walked over with a wineglass in hand, smiling.
"Alice, go and chat with your friends."
He spoke to his daughter, then turned to Cui Ciyou.
"Ciyou, would you mind joining your father-in-law on the balcony for some fresh air?"
Although Alice was reluctant, she could hardly defy her father in public.
She shot Cui Ciyou a fierce glare that told him not to wander off, then turned and walked toward Sylphy.
Cui Ciyou followed Philip through the crowd to the quiet balcony.
Philip got straight to the point.
"Taking a thousand-strong rescue team under your command to help rebuild Fittoa..."
"They are indeed former residents of the Fitoia Territory, especially those who volunteered for the search-and-rescue teams."
"Their loyalty is beyond question."
"Ciyou, your boldness far exceeds anything I imagined."
Cui Ciyou answered calmly.
"These may not be times of chaos, but they are hardly peaceful."
"To protect yourself, you must have power in your hands."
"One person's strength reaches only so far. The strength of many can extend a thousand miles."
"If I ruled a nation right now, Roxy might already be by my side."
"Well said."
Philip nodded in approval, then shifted the subject, his gaze deepening.
"Your plans are thorough. House Boreas will give you its full support in both funding and connections."
"But there is something you probably don't know yet."
"What is it?"
Philip took a sip of red wine and spoke slowly.
"During the three years since you were displaced, the balance of power in the Asla Kingdom has changed considerably."
"The struggle between the First Prince and the Second Prince has reached a fever pitch."
"The Third Imperial Princess, Ariel, has fled far away to the Ranoa University of Magic."
"Many rising nobles are pursuing power like sharks drawn to the scent