Grand plan

"...Second brother Theo? You survived the invasion of the Flame Empire?! What about my first brother Caesar, Grandpa Galan, and Grandpa Brian? Is everyone okay?!" Richard stood up slowly, almost unable to believe what he was seeing. His features changed for the first time since he entered the hall, turning from the kind smile that seemed as if nothing would disturb it, to a shock that gilded the minds mixed with some joy.

Theo let out a long sigh when he heard this question, and his face changed as if he remembered something he didn't want to remember, "...A lot has happened since the day you and my lady left. The Flame Empire intensified the attack greatly until--- Then we decided to form a battalion and escape, but then---"