Auren thought quietly to himself.
Human nature… it no longer concerned him.
He had come to that conclusion a long time ago, perhaps earlier than he should have.
Some time passed before Callan entered the room.
"Auren, are you reading your book?" he asked in his usual warm tone.
Auren looked up at him.
"Yes."
Callan smiled at the short reply.
"Did you like it?"
Auren nodded faintly.
"It was fine. Not bad. Actually, I wanted to ask you something."
Callan paused, then asked,
"What is it you want to know?"
Auren stayed silent for a moment before speaking again.
"What is the name of the empire we're living in?"
Callan answered without much thought.
"This land is called Lodrius."
Auren went quiet. He didn't speak, but something about his expression changed.
Callan noticed.
"Why are you asking that?"
Still facing down, Auren replied softly,
"I was just curious. It's normal to want to know where you live, isn't it?"
Callan gave a small nod.
"Actually, I came to tell you I'm heading into the village for a bit."
Surprised, Auren blinked. Then his eyes lit up with something almost like interest.
"Can I come with you?"
Callan looked at him for a moment, then nodded in approval.