"They don't hate Ophris because they were colonized,"
Selaphiel corrected.
"They hate Ophris because the country was colonized… by elves. They fear elven magic might secretly fall into human hands. And in some ways… they're right."
"…I see."
Lugh then turned his attention, stating plainly,
"This country is in real danger."
He began again, voice low but firm.
"Not because of the magical civilizations—but because of the blade they've chosen to wield."
"Hmmm?"
Selaphiel stared at him, prompting him to elaborate.
"From what I've gathered, Heieg could've ended this war long ago with the resources they already have at their disposal."
"…What do you mean by that?"
"I mean that if Heieg decided to invade Pyrellis today, they'd cut through our defenses like fire through wax—reaching the capital in no time at all."
Everyone in the room tensed.
"How is that—"
"—possible?"
Lugh completed the sentence, letting out a weary, distressed smile.
