Ethan appreciated Sir Andy's flexibility but didn't intend to reveal too much just yet. He began, "You're aware that this land supplies resources to the North, right?"
Seeing Andy nod, Ethan continued, "Given that, you should understand its importance to the Duke. Now, someone is trying to sabotage this place, and the culprits are from within the Duke's inner circle. The seriousness of this should be clear to you. If the Duke finds out someone within his ranks is disrupting the North's supply chain, what do you think he'll do? I'm certain Darian was one, and your superior is likely involved too. Whether you're also implicated is something you know best. And I've already reported this through special channels. The Duke will act soon, and you, as an insider, should know how he'll handle it."
Andy began to sweat, though the room wasn't overly warm. He understood the scarcity of resources in the North better than most, given his role in the Duke's third knight regiment, responsible for logistics and supplies. He saw daily reports highlighting the region's shortages. If a minor knight like him was aware, the Duke certainly knew and valued the supply chain's integrity. The Duke's frequent visits to oversee logistics himself underscored his commitment. Should the Duke learn of internal sabotage, his response would be severe—punishing not just individuals but their entire families.
For Andy, involvement in such a scandal, even unknowingly, meant severe consequences. Being expelled from the knight regiment, which signified the Duke's recognition and was crucial for family honor, would be devastating. This fear drove him to swallow his pride and return, despite expecting humiliation. Now, Ethan's words confirmed his worst fears: he was entangled in an act that could disrupt the Duke's plans, even though he had followed orders without full awareness.
Andy's realization deepened his anxiety. He had harbored doubts—why was a mage from Barren Fortress at Lawson's estate? Why was he attacking? What equipment was so crucial? These questions suggested he was cleaning up someone else's mess. Even aware of this, Andy couldn't defy orders, aiming to resolve the issue under the guise of official business. Ethan's firm refusal and the potential fallout from the Duke left Andy in a precarious position.
Desperate, Andy sought to distance himself from the scandal. "Sir Ethan, I assure you I had no part in this. Please, help clear my name."
Ethan frowned, noting Andy's naivety. Whether he vouched for Andy was irrelevant—the Duke's internal matters weren't his to influence. However, Andy's clear concern and desperation suggested he might reveal valuable information.
"Sir Andy, you must understand that this situation goes beyond personal grievances. My support won't change the outcome. But…" Ethan paused deliberately. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, then offering a glimmer of hope, would likely manipulate Andy effectively. Observing Andy's reaction would indicate his malleability.
Andy's shifting expressions—from distress to hope—signaled his susceptibility. He urgently pressed, "But what, Sir Ethan? Please, help me!"
Ethan smiled, recognizing an opportunity. "I'm willing to help because I admire your resilience. Lowering yourself to clean up shows your dedication to progress."
Praising Andy's humility while subtly asserting dominance, Ethan aimed to foster obedience. Andy's eager response indicated his approach was working.
"Before assisting you, I need to understand some things about your regiment. Are you willing to share?"
"As long as it doesn't violate principles, ask away, Sir Ethan. I'll be truthful," Andy replied, visibly relieved.
Ethan smiled, pleased with the smooth progress.