"For the second favor, I need your backing," Jack said.
Eric's diplomatic mask held, but his eyes sharpened with the wariness of someone who'd just heard a request that could mean anything. "Backing for what specifically?"
"That's the thing. I'm not telling you." Jack's grin widened at Eric's carefully concealed surprise. "At some point in the future, I'm going to need the king of Elysium to publicly support me in a matter. When that time comes, I'll invoke this favor, and you'll back me. No matter who opposes me. No matter what the political cost. Your word, Your Majesty."
The study fell into silence as Eric processed the implications of what Jack was asking. It was, in essence, a blank check of royal authority.
An unlimited favor that could be called in at any time, for any purpose, with no way for Eric to prepare countermeasures or negotiate limitations.
