Harald's Thoughts

As soon as the words fell,

Harald's hand holding the wine cup began to tremble visibly.

The thick liquor swayed gently in the cup as that massive head, like a mountain, suddenly leaned toward Rock. The pressure was almost tangible, and even the deck seemed to groan under the strain.

"Is that true?!!"

"Rocks... is he still alive?!!"

It was no longer the dignity of a king, but the voice of someone who had recovered what he had lost and yet dared not believe it was real.

Rock merely nodded slightly.

Yet before Harald could recover from the sudden ecstasy, Rock continued, "Though he is alive."

"He won't live much longer."

Harald froze. His wine cup stopped in midair, and even his breathing halted.

"...What do you mean?"

Rock turned his head toward the churning sea in the distance. Lightning flashed through his eyes.

"That question—"

"Ask him yourself the next time you see him."

After a pause, he named a place. "Lulusia."

This time, Harald did not press further.

As if all strength had drained from him, he slowly leaned back against the bow. His lips moved unconsciously as he murmured, "Alive... that's enough..."

Rock watched him without interrupting.

Only after that dazed state gradually settled did he speak again, his tone turning sharp and direct.

"Harald, if you take this step—"

"Elbaf will lose its backbone forever."

Harald raised his head. Rock's gaze was no longer gentle, like Thunder striking a mountaintop.

"The World Government has never wanted allies."

"What it wants is—obedient livestock."

Harald frowned deeply, his voice low but exceptionally firm. "You're too naive."

"Look at history."

"How many races that refused them still live under the sun?"

He spoke each word distinctly, as though repeating something he had told himself countless times.

"We can't afford