Layers

The Lord's expression shifted, surprise evident in his eyes. "Max, why would you choose Earth over Coelus? The knowledge and resources there far surpass those of Earth. This decision is perplexing, to say the least."

"I don't understand why you don't see the reason, which is clear to me," I responded, frustration edging my tone.

But then anger surged within me, and I declared, "I refuse to be led by the nose any longer. You must explain to me why the cluster would experience starvation, or I won't provide assistance, no matter what."

I had a feeling that he would make me help them even if I didn't want to.

The Lord glanced briefly at Therion, who wore a somber expression, then shifted his gaze back to me and sighed. "Max, you may have already experienced some of it — the COVID, the global warming, an issue that Earth citizens perceive as their fault, and it's half-true. The higher rates of mental and health problems, these are all interconnected."