"Third, and most important of all." Gabriel's tone became serious, and everyone stared at him intently. "Walking into Valerian territory means bending the knee. They'll tax us, press us into their wars, or worse—put chains on our people the moment they know who I am. We won't be independent anymore. We'll just be another expendable pawn."
Those present in the meeting now understood Gabriel's perspective. Knowing that purchasing food from the Valerian Kingdom might affect them in the long run didn't suddenly seem so appealing.
As someone from earth, Gabriel had witnessed this firsthand. He had seen nations become dependent on others and, in the end, become nothing but a pawn.
The Broken Dawn guild wasn't affiliated with any kingdom, and he planned to keep it that way.
Sophie stared at Gabriel and a glint of admiration flashed across her eyes. It was rare for someone so young to think several steps ahead.
