The old man smiled happily, feeling consoled and hopeful, and not at all despondent. Hao Ren and the rest in the group could not understand his reaction. Vivian stared into the eyes of the old man to check if he was still sane. "You … Do you really understand their situation? Yes, they are still speaking the old language, and perhaps even remember most of the written words, but those are pretty much it. They have no history, no culture, no traditions. The heart of your civilization is dead … Forgive me for being frank, but these people are only living oblivious lives in this wasteland."
Vivian did not hold back as she said those words. She had seen the rise and fall of many kingdoms and civilizations, and right now she was only offering her thoughts as a neutral observer. Nevertheless, the old man did not seem convinced. He listened quietly as Vivian finished speaking. His white, sparse hair fluttered in the gentle breeze. "You know, I thought it could be worse."
