"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