The Reward (2)

"I'm not offering this as the Baron of Rackenshore but as a father whose son was rescued. I didn't use the funds of the territory for this; it's from my own savings. I hope you'll accept it."

Lucavion froze for a split second, the Baron's words, "as a father whose son was rescued," stirring something deep inside him. Memories—bitter, painful memories—rose unbidden to the surface, but just as quickly as they came, he pushed them back down. His composure returned, though the brief flicker of emotion didn't go unnoticed by the Baron and his wife.

"I appreciate your generosity," Lucavion began, his voice steady but carrying a hint of reluctance. "But I've already received what I need from you. Any further gifts would make things... complicated."