Ashley’s face flushed at the sudden mention of her. Arthur scratched the back of his head, smiling shyly for once. But… was it his imagination? Arthur couldn’t help but feel there was something more behind Mr. Drake’s words—like a quiet note of reflection buried in the teasing. Drake’s eyes settled on Arthur again. “Young man, I just realized—I don’t even know your name.” The mood in the room had eased significantly, and Drake’s tone with Arthur had grown casual. Solivair had submitted a request to bring Arthur and Ashley to the island, and that request had passed through layer upon layer of strict approval. By the time it reached Drake’s desk, it had basically been greenlit. He’d been busy back then, and only glanced at the paperwork before signing it—so he hadn’t really remembered Arthur’s name until now. This question now… was more a way to test Arthur’s response. Arthur smacked his forehead lightly, smiling sheepishly. “Ah, sir, I’m sorry. We’ve been talking all this time and I haven’t even introduced myself properly.” He straightened up and said, “My name is Arthur. I’m from South City, Lioran.” Then he gestured toward the girl beside him. “This is my fiancée, Ashley. She’s from Seacity, Lioran.” “Arthur…” Drake repeated the name softly, eyes lowered, as if searching his memory for something. Arthur tilted his head, a little puzzled. “Sir, have you heard it before?” He was only asking casually—but to his surprise, Drake nodded. “It sounds familiar. Like I’ve heard it somewhere.” Arthur’s eyebrows rose. He could understand being somewhat known back in Lioran, but this was Heaven Island—far from the mainland. From what Arthur had heard, Drake almost never left the island unless it was absolutely necessary. He was just a small fry. What would make someone like Mr. Drake pay attention to him? Drake looked at him again, then asked, “Tell me, young man… do you still have family?” Arthur’s gaze dimmed slightly. But he answered evenly, “Because of… certain events, I severed ties with my family two years ago. Now, I’m on my own.” He paused, then added, “But I do have a grandfather. He disappeared when I was a kid. I’ve been trying to find him ever since.” As he spoke about his grandfather, a trace of sorrow crept into Arthur’s expression. Ever since John had mentioned that mysterious lead, Arthur hadn’t stopped searching. After returning from the outskirts of Mose City last time, he’d sent out more people to comb the area. But so far… nothing. Drake’s brows lifted slightly. He hadn’t expected the boy’s past to be so complicated at such a young age. Now that caught his interest. The people outside had bored him to death, frankly Arthur, though… there was something oddly familiar about him. That was why Drake had asked him to come in alone—to get a better look. He hadn’t expected the boy to be this engaging. Leaning back against the chair, Drake asked casually, “Alright, tell me—why did you cut ties with your family?” He chuckled. “You’re about the age where you should still be in school, no?” Drake couldn’t even remember the last time he’d been curious about a younger generation. Talking to Arthur was… oddly relaxing. He knew how to flatter, yes—but it was natural, not greasy or overdone. That kind of charm was rare. Arthur was a little stunned to see this side of Drake—so casual, so curious. This man commanded the respect of every powerful figure on the island. And yet here he was, showing genuine interest in the life of someone as insignificant as Arthur. Didn’t people at his level usually have no time for things like this? Still, Arthur wasn’t going to dwell on that. He gave a faint laugh and followed Drake’s lead. “There’s not much to tell. Just… some petty family drama, really.”As he spoke, Arthur began to recount the story—his own story. Once, these memories had torn at him day and night. The pain had eaten at his body and spirit, kept him from sleeping. He used to dream of getting stronger—strong enough to exact revenge on everyone who’d hurt him. But as time went on, Arthur encountered many people who brought warmth into his life. That warmth slowly began to heal him. It showed him light and hope he’d never seen before. Now, he still wanted to grow strong—but not to get revenge. He wanted to protect the people he loved, and the people who loved him.