"Don't you promise to become a reliable friend and subject for me once I become the King?" Arin Helev said to his friend who kept his gaze lowered the whole time. "That's what you promised me while we were young."
"Everything was fine back then," Hanson Lorin argued. "My family was one of the most loyal supporters of the throne. But now, things have changed, Your Majesty. You already went out of your way to spare my father. If others know about it, it will only become harder for you."
"I only follow my heart like I always did," the young King firmly stated. "If you were me, I know that you will do the same."
"Arin -"
"You know my dream, Hanson," Arin Helev promptly said before his friend could say anything. "I want to work to achieve that. I have many enemies around me and I have to be alert all the time. You know I can't handle everything on my own."
"There are many other Generals who are capable enough to look after the army."