The Empire's backing

Originally when Ray started his search for Van, it was a task set to him by the queen. As a favour for helping him join the academy, Ray decided he would help find out why her son was being bullied and being called a freak in school.

Then when Ray found out the Divine being had tasked this person with a great task, Ray's own personal interest was piqued. If this person was to travel with him in the future Ray wanted to know what he was like.

And finally, after seeing what happened in the academy, Ray forgot about all the reasons before. He felt like he was able to connect with Van on some level and now Ray truly wanted to help him.

"Please just leave me alone," Van said, "Why are you trying so hard to get involved, it's none of your business?"

"Are you really okay with people calling you names, Monster, Freak, weirdo. It might be something that will happen for your whole life."