"You look surprised," he said calmly.
"I am," Ethan admitted honestly after a brief pause.
Then he looked directly at the Crown Prince.
"Your Highness, with your status, I doubt friendship is something you can casually offer," he said carefully.
Haster smiled slightly after hearing that.
"And that is exactly why I am offering it seriously," he replied.
The atmosphere inside the room became quieter, and even the servants standing nearby lowered their heads further while not daring to interrupt.
Haster leaned back slightly against his seat while calmly swirling the coffee inside his cup.
"You are interesting, Ethan Blanks," he said.
"Far more interesting than most nobles inside this Empire."
Ethan remained silent and simply listened quietly.
Haster continued speaking slowly.
"You are talented."
"You are young."
"You have influence."
"And despite everything happening around you, you are still growing stronger instead of collapsing."
His crimson eyes narrowed slightly.
