The issue lies here: Laine is currently making waves in the kingdom, being the Divine Chosen Champion of the Lake Fairy. He killed the Red Duke and banished the Great Nurgle Demon, so the great nobles dare not openly provoke him.
Richard had to bite the bullet and send an official letter, demanding that Laine investigate the population within his domain, with the underlying intention of returning the escapees.
However, Laine is no fool. The importance of population goes without saying, and he certainly will not return the escapees.
"Returning them is not an option, it will never be an option in this lifetime." Laine looked at the king's letter and smiled at Amelia, "Having children is too slow, only by sheltering escapees can the population be quickly expanded."
"You're annoying! Why are you suddenly talking about that, having children and all..." Amelia blushed, clearly thinking of something else. "Laine, you're really... We're discussing serious matters here!"
