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"Patriarch, you can't say that! In the beginning, you were the one who led everyone to defeat Ike. How can you say such hopeless words now? We can't give up—not even the smallest chance!"
Hearing the patriarch say those words, Xiao suddenly became anxious and quickly spoke up.
The patriarch gave a bitter smile. He understood that Xiao only wanted the best for their people. Living under a tyrant's rule for so long had made life miserable for everyone.
But the situation wasn't as simple as they thought. The patriarch knew this deep in his heart. However, after glancing at Arthur, he shifted his gaze back to him.
Arthur was clearly waiting for a proper explanation. As the leader, the patriarch should be determined to take back his homeland.
So why was he saying such things? What had made his once-burning resolve fade away?
"Xiao, you're still young. You'll understand when you grow up. And as for you, warrior... no matter where you came from, it's best if you leave this island as soon as possible. Outsiders have no place in our affairs."
His tone was firm and unwavering.
Arthur felt uneasy and wanted to say something, but before he could, the patriarch had already turned and walked away with his cane.
Seeing this, the other villagers also left, returning to their homes one by one.
Arthur had thought that helping them defeat Ike would bring them relief and happiness. But instead, their faces showed only numbness and indifference—almost as if they had grown used to living this way.
Seeing the villagers in this state, Arthur wasn't sure how he should react.
"What's going on here? I helped free your people from a tyrant's rule. Shouldn't you all be happy? Why do you all look like this? Do you not believe me?"
Arthur was shocked by their unusual behavior.
Xiao also looked confused after hearing Arthur's words. He couldn't understand why his own people seemed so indifferent about reclaiming their homeland. It didn't make sense to him.
Then, frustration appeared on Xiao's face. He knew that most of the villagers were kind-hearted in their daily lives. Maybe they had just gotten too used to being this way.
That's why Xiao silently clenched his fists in anger.
Seeing this, Arthur worried that Xiao might do something reckless. He gently patted Xiao Qi's head twice and gave him a reassuring smile.
If things continued like this, Arthur knew something wasn't right. If he wanted answers, he had to get to the bottom of it.
"Maybe the patriarch has his reasons for acting this way. Let's wait here. I'll go ask him what's really going on, and then I'll come back to tell you the truth. How does that sound?"