“So Argent developed this quickly because their territory was far more peaceful?”Ryan was still sitting in Felix’s room, processing the history he had just heard.Felix Arden nodded.“For the most part.”“What about Blackthorn?”Felix sighed.“Our situation was different.”He picked up a drink from the table before continuing.“Blackthorn’s original territory bordered several much more aggressive beastfolk groups. They were strong, loved war, and were extremely difficult to negotiate with.”Ryan remembered the earlier explanation about Naturalized Residents.“That’s why Blackthorn Reach doesn’t have as many native residents as Argenthold.”“Exactly.”Felix smiled bitterly.“Blackthorn won the war in the end, but the price was enormous. The prolonged conflict consumed a huge amount

“Ryan, you really don’t understand who Roxanne Calder is, do you?”Marcel Laurent was still looking at him with pity.Ryan put down his pen.“I know she’s the Crimson Witch. I know she’s strong. And now I know she really likes looking for people to fight.”“Not just likes.”Marcel pulled over a chair and sat down.“That woman cannot be judged by normal human standards.”Charlotte Reed came over as well.“If I were you, I’d explain the situation to Professor Whitmore and seriously consider returning to Blackthorn e