Chapter 237: The Agreement With The Crown Prince
"What do you want, William?" Lyan asked, his tone cold and his expression guarded.
Prince Erich Wanevar Astellia, the man Lyan had known as William during their shared quest against the goblin king, smiled wryly. "Please, call me Erich- I guess forget it. Just call me William. And may I come in? I assure you, this conversation is better held in private."
Lyan hesitated for a moment before nodding and stepping aside, allowing Erich to enter. The prince moved with a quiet grace, taking a seat in the room’s only chair. Lyan remained standing, his eyes never leaving Erich.
"Why are you here?" Lyan asked, his voice carefully neutral.
Erich leaned back, studying Lyan with a mixture of respect and urgency. "There’s a situation in Astellia that requires immediate attention. The duke’s faction, also known as the noble faction, has been causing significant unrest. They oppose the royal family and have been undermining the kingdom’s stability."
Lyan listened intently as Erich continued, "We’re facing several internal problems. For one, there’s an ongoing issue with bandits, likely funded by the nobles, causing chaos in the border towns. Then, there’s a faction within the military that’s showing signs of disloyalty. Additionally, our resources are being stretched thin due to a mysterious plague affecting the western provinces. All of these issues require my direct concern and focus."
"So what’s the catch?" Lyan’s expression remained stoic. "There must be others more suited to handle your internal politics. What is the problem with me"
Erich’s eyes gleamed with determination. "You’re not just anyone, Lyan. You’re capable, resourceful, and above all, you don’t bend to anyone’s will. Your independence and integrity are precisely what we need right now."
Lyan raised an eyebrow. Lyan knew the offer William made, but it’s the first time William, or the crown prince Erich of Astellia uttered those words to him directly.
Erich took a deep breath. "I’m offering you a unique position here. Just like what I’ve written in my letter before, become a noble of Astellia, Lyan. With your freedom intact. You can pursue your own goals, but you’ll have the obligation to protect the kingdom and the royal family. It’s a special treatment, and I believe it’s well-suited to someone like you."
Lyan’s lips curled into a faint, almost imperceptible smile. "So, I get to be a noble, do what I want, and in return, I just have to protect you and your family? Are you sure about that?"