“Logan?” Austin was stunned as he watched the man remove his mask, then his eyes lit up with joy. The man who infiltrated the castle was no stranger. It was Dustin, dressed in a guard’s attire.
“Austin, you’ve truly come far on your own. You can handle matters independently now,” Dustin praised, a glint of pride in his eyes as he observed his step-brother.
Having overheard Austin and Eloise’s entire conversation, Dustin appreciated Austin’s trust in him. He acknowledged Eloise’s concerns as well.
Throughout history, it wasn’t uncommon for siblings and family members to vie for power. Eloise’s protective instincts for her child were entirely justified.
“Logan, when did you return?” Austin asked.
“Just two days ago,” Dustin replied.
“Do you already know what happened to Father?” Austin’s voice trembled slightly. Dustin glanced at his father’s picture near his coffin and nodded in silence.
The last time they had met was back in Swinton a year ago. Little did they know that it would be their final farewell. Now, Dustin was standing in the funeral hall while Rufus lay inside the coffin. Life was truly unpredictable.
Dustin approached the casket and gazed at Rufus through the half-open lid. Rufus’ expression was peaceful, indicating a departure free from suffering.
For some reason, as Dustin looked at the face he once despised, a wave of sorrow engulfed him. If only he had returned to West Lucozia and met with his father sooner, perhaps things wouldn’t have turned out this way.
Why? How did it come to this? Dustin’s fists involuntarily clenched, and his eyes reddened.
“Logan, Father’s health had deteriorated over these two years. He relied solely on the panacea to sustain his life. The doctor said that Father suffered from Celestial Decay and was nearing his end.
“Rather than a decline into death, this outcome might be considered a form of liberation,” Austin said with his voice choked with grief.
“Have they caught the murderer?” Dustin turned around to ask him.
“Albert is investigating the matter.”
“How about the spy in the castle?”
Dustin asked again.
“We have a suspect, but with the uncertainty surrounding the current situation, I haven’t taken any drastic actions to avoid alerting them,” Austin said.
“Good job. Keep an eye on the spy for now. Once we expose the mastermind, we can apprehend them all at once.” Dustin nodded.
“Logan, since you’re back, things will be easier. Father always hoped that you would ascend to the throne. From today onward, you are the Prince of West Lucozia.
“I’ll fetch the royal seal and military insignia immediately!” Austin said, ready to leave, but Dustin raised his hand to stop him.
“Austin, I’m not interested in the throne. Besides, after being away from West Lucozia for ten years, I’m no longer the person I used to be. You are the rightful heir.”
“Logan, I’m aware of my abilities. I’m not fit to be the Prince of West Lucozia. On the other hand, you are the one who everyone expects to ascend to the throne.
“And you are the only one who can take up this responsibility!”
“Austin, you’re not weaker than me. As long as you put your heart to it, there’s nothing you can’t do,” Dustin insisted.
