“This…” Dustin began.
He hesitated on purpose and didn’t give an immediate answer.
Upon seeing him deep in thought, Nathaniel was convinced that Dustin was weighing the pros and cons. He leaned in slightly, his smile widening with anticipation.
“You should know how much the Dracan essence means to me,” he said. “If I can gather all the essences, it’d be like fate is on my side. My path to the throne would be unstoppable-and when that time comes, your reward will be waiting.”
As he spoke, his gaze stayed on Dustin as he searched for any sign of hesitation in his expression.
Dustin looked up and met his eyes. For a moment, something unreadable flickered in his gaze.
He pressed his lips together and spoke slowly. “You’re right, Your Highness. But it wasn’t easy to find the Dracan essence. I went through quite a few twists and turns. Besides, if I give it to you, it might put me at odds with the other two princes.”
He paused deliberately and left the rest unsaid. Still, the concern in his tone couldn’t be missed.
“You don’t have to worry about that. This stays between us, and no one else will ever find out,” Nathaniel said, picking up on Dustin’s implication immediately.
Patting his chest, he promised, “Even if Tristan or Matthias somehow find out, I’ll do my best to protect you. No one’s going to lay a finger on you.”
He spoke with absolute certainty, and the look in his eyes left no room for doubt.
“With that kind of sincerity, how could I say no?” Dustin replied. After a brief pause, he added, “But I have one more question.”
“Go ahead.” Nathaniel’s eyes lit up. As long as Dustin gave him the Dracan essence, he was willing to agree to almost anything.
“How confident are you that you’ll actually take the throne?!” Dustin asked plainly.
“Oh?” Nathaniel raised an eyebrow and was caught off guard. He hadn’t expected Dustin to ask that.
Dustin had made it clear earlier that he had no intention of interfering in their power struggle. Now, it looked like he was thinking about getting involved.
After a moment of thought, Nathaniel replied, “If you’re willing to hand over the Dracan essence, I’d say I’d have at least a 50% chance of success.”
Then, he added, “But if you decide to assist me, my odds go up to 80.”
Dustin wasn’t just an ultimate grandmaster, but he also had the support of the West Lucozian monarchy. With his strength and influence, he was one of the most powerful figures in Dragonmarsh. To Nathaniel, he was more valuable than any of the ancient houses.
Nathaniel’s earlier claim of an 80% chance was likely an understatement. If he gained the support of the West Lucozian monarchy, Tristan and Matthias wouldn’t stand a chance against him, even if they joined forces.
Dustin didn’t respond right away. Instead, he calmly picked up the teacup and took a sip, as if carefully considering Nathaniel’s words.
Nathaniel grew anxious but did his best to mask it. He forced himself to stay composed and said, “Logan, you’re a smart man. With civil unrest on the horizon, it’ll be hard for someone in your position to remain neutral.
“Even if you don’t care about your future, think about the West Lucozian monarchy. If Tristan or Matthias takes the throne, they won’t tolerate its existence. Their first move will be to strip the nobility of their influence.
“But I’m different. My loyalty is to the people and the nation. I understand the significant contribution the West Lucozian monarchy has made to Dragonmarsh.
“If you support me, I can promise a privileged position for you and the protection of the monarchy’s future. If you don’t believe me, I’ll swear on it right now. 11
Nathaniel raised his hand, as if ready to swear a solemn oath on the spot.
Dustin found it amusing. Nathaniel talked about having the country’s welfare at heart, yet his shamelessness was remarkable. Though he found it laughable, he kept his expression composed.
“Your Highness, I appreciate your sincerity,” he responded as if genuinely moved. “But this isn’t something I can decide lightly. I hope you’ll give me some time to think it over.”
“Of course,” Nathaniel said.
He smiled and continued, “I understand your caution. Why don’t you stay here tonight and take your time to think it over? I’ll have my staff prepare several escorts to help you relax and enjoy your stay.”
He knew better than to rush Dustin. Pushing too hard could easily backfire.
“Then, I’ll thank you for your generous hospitality,” Dustin said with a nod.
“Come on. The food’s ready. I can tell we’re going to get along great. Let’s eat while we chat,” Nathaniel said enthusiastically as he led Dustin toward the dining room.
It was midday, and Nathaniel had already arranged a lavish spread. But now, he was more interested in Dustin than the Dracan essence.
The Dracan essence could help boost his chances, but it wasn’t foolproof. If he could secure the support of an ultimate grandmaster like Dustin, he could also gain the backing of the West Lucozian monarchy.
Once he had that, along with the support of the Spanners and other great families, the throne would be within reach.
