730 Growing Kingdom

Archer gazed warmly at his grandfather, a flicker of curiosity dancing in his eyes, before nodding and gesturing for him to sit. As Mathias took a seat, he commented, ''I see you're returning to the empire. I'm glad I caught you, as I've never had the chance to speak to you, and I was always busy.''

''Well, I recall two times that you visited Vassia City and spoke with Leonard, but my mother hid me away so you couldn't witness how bad they treated me,'' he said. ''But enough of this depressing stuff, what can I do for you?''

Mathias nodded in agreement, ''Rumors speak of you establishing a kingdom in the south. If you're interested, I have decades of experience training recruits and can assist you with your army.''

Archer's eyes narrowed as he spoke, ''We shall see, but more importantly, are you just seeking me out to better your lot in life, or do you want to use me because I have power now?''