A maid approached them, carrying a tray with tea and coffee. Lucien didn't particularly enjoy coffee, even in his past life. While it helped him stay awake, it also made his mind feel foggy, which was a greater concern for him. After all, with all the work he had to do, he simply couldn't afford to create distractions for himself.
The maid then carefully placed the tea and coffee on the table then left afterwards. As she did, Darius reached for his coffee and took a light sip.
"First of all, how are you planning on providing help with the current situation in the Barony of Blackmere? This is important, as I simply can't allow you to do something that will bring a bad image of your reputation again. I know you are kind-hearted, but please, Your Highness, be logical sometimes."
Lucien reached for his tea and took a sip before speaking.
"I am aware of your worries about me, Captain Darius, but don't worry. This situation can benefit me a lot. I am not just responding to the situation with my morality and my responsibilities as the crown prince. If I did manage to successfully provide help with the Barony of Blackmere, just think about what would happen to my reputation if I did fail; people's mindset about me would remain the same, regardless, I doubt it would get worse."
Although it was his duty as the crown prince to assist those in need, there are moments when one must also consider their well-being. Sometimes, fulfilling our responsibilities can have negative effects on ourselves.
That's why benefits must also be calculated. This was the harsh reality, even in his world. Politicians do not extend their assistance to people simply out of kindness; they do so because it ultimately benefits them.
The original Lucien lacked something vital: he never considered the potential benefits he could gain from situations. He wasn't the type to manipulate others for his advantage. Instead, he acted purely out of kindness and understanding, often without reflecting on the negative effects or consequences of his actions. Perhaps he was aware of the consequences, but his genuine, kind-hearted nature made those concerns seem unimportant.
He wanted to help his people; that was the only thing in his heart. He didn't want to let them down. At least, that's how Seojun perceived Lucien's mindset. Despite not fully succeeding in his efforts to aid his people, Lucien had extended his help, and many appreciated his actions, expressing their gratitude.
Though many still hated his incompetence for constantly failing to improve his own kingdom's issues.
'It's great to know that there were still people who appreciated Lucien.'
'Such a kind-hearted man, I truly feel bad for him.'
'He only wanted to help his people, and when he failed, people criticized him, not even acknowledging the fact that he always tried to do something for them.'
Darius stared at him silently, his expression blank for a moment, almost in shock, even, then smiled.
"Your Highness, you have changed a lot. I guess you haven't simply been remaining idle in your isolation, huh? Just know that I always believed in you, Your Highness."
Lucien chuckled.
"So, you mind telling me already?"
Darius's expression was indifferent.
"Sure."
Darius's expression then turned serious as he was about to explain in detail the current situation in the Barony of Blackmere. It made Lucien think how much of a serious issue it was, making him think of backing down; however, he had already said his words, and he didn't want to break them, it would make him look like a coward, something that the original Lucien never did.
Well, he did run away from his responsibilities, but it wasn't because of fear, but rather because of how much he hated his incompetent self.
"First things first, let me explain how their situation came to be. The Barony of Blackmere was originally an area, or a forest, that belonged to the Gravhorns. When humans arrived, they terrorized the region and claimed it as their territory. Now, the Gravhorns have returned to reclaim what once belonged to them.
"Technically, we are at fault here; we have killed their kind and invaded their land. However, it's important to note that it wasn't everyone involved who was to blame. The ordinary civilians in this area did not commit those acts of violence. Honestly, I am at a loss for what to do. If we relinquish the land, the people living there will lose their homes. Yet, it is also true that the land wasn't rightfully ours to begin with. On the other hand, exterminating them is certainly not the right choice, nor is it a simple solution."
Lucien was momentarily in shock, his brows furrowed. He thought carefully before speaking, ensuring he wouldn't say anything nonsensical.
"Have they tried making a negotiation? Maybe giving up part of the land? Have they tried to see it from the Gravhorn's perspective? Maybe what they want isn't the land, but something valuable rooted in that land."
Darius was silent for a while.
"That's true, we never actually tried to see it from their perspective. We just assumed they wanted their land back because of history. But if what you are saying is true, what kind of valuable thing could they possibly be targeting, for them to constantly terrorize the civilians living there?"
Lucien's thought wandered off for a moment.
"Maybe going there ourselves would give us the answer?"
Darius was dumbfounded, hearing Lucien's statement.
"It's not as simple as just saying it, Your Highness. Look at what happened to the lieutenant captain that the king dispatched; he was ambushed and lost many of his soldiers. Gravhorns are intelligent creatures, you see. They aren't the mindless beasts that many people believe."
A hint of confusion formed on Lucien's face.
"Why couldn't Father just dispatch you there himself? Such an issue in the kingdom should be dealt with by someone are formidable as you, right?"
Darius let out a sigh.
"I have my matters to address, you know. There are more significant issues in the countries than you might realize, so the king cannot afford to decide hastily."
This time, Lucien was the one to let out a sigh.
"That's true. Then, is there no other way I can go there myself?"
Darius smiled.
"I doubt those Gravhorns could deal a blow to me. I can easily wipe them out if I come along."
Lucien smiled as well.
"Then, why don't you come with me? I promise it won't take long, and you'll be able to deal with other issues afterwards."