But in recent years, sudden changes had swept through the Empire as it faced a major reshuffle. Consequently, the Earl's covetous desire for Hamlet began to stir.
The matter of an Heir was crucial to the family line and could not be compromised, but Alvin's identity was not so sensitive. Even if the Emperor ultimately won and turned his attention back to the Northwest, the Lord of Hamlet would still be Alvin, with no connection to the Bastia Family.
Although everyone was aware of the relationship between the two, it was uncertain how much strength the Emperor would have left to wage another war once the turmoil was subdued.
This way, the Emperor's face would be saved, and the Earl would successfully annex Hamlet. In just a few more generations, the Bastia Family would emerge as a new behemoth.
If they failed...
These Barons vaguely guessed this, but they could not speak of it, nor did they dare to.
