Although the aborted showdown at Clear Stream Outfall had passed, its aftereffects lingered for a long time. Mike's departure allowed the citizens of Central District a sigh of relief. They recognized that he had given in to the royal family and spared Ysabelle. On the other hand, although the outlanders understood why he had done so, it didn't sit well with them. Mike was the pillar in their hearts, someone who was not afraid to take on any challenge. He represented their will to do the things they longed to do but never dared to.
However, Mike eventually gave up. He bowed down to the royal family's power. At the most critical moment, he withdrew silently.
Even though things hadn't gone as they had hoped, fortunately they still understood his decision. There was too big a price to
