Chapter 1709 by Marina Vittori

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Dustin replied, “Your Majesty, I haven’t had the chance to interact with the princes. Thus, I lack the familiarity needed for a fair evaluation. Please, forgive me.”

“It’s alright if you’re not familiar with them. Let me provide you with more insights,” Valon said. He wasn’t one to back down and continued, “My eldest son possesses a calm temperament and grew up learning the ways of governance next to me.

“While he may not be able to expand our territory, he is more than capable of safeguarding what we have now.

“Unfortunately, his frail health and persistent illnesses make him unsuited as a ruler.”

By the end of it, Valon let out a sigh. His eldest son would be considered a wise ruler, but unfortunately, he didn’t have a King’s destiny.

A prophecy had predicted that his eldest son wouldn’t live past 36. If he passed the throne to him, he would probably meet his end within a few years of the taxing work.

“If the eldest Prince isn’t suitable, what about the second Prince?” Dustin asked.

“Although my second son is physically strong and courageous, his arrogance and disregard for others disqualify him as a wise ruler.” Valon shook his head.

Even though his second son had learned the martial arts from a young age, he lacked wisdom and was impulsive. This made him more suited to be a general rather than a king.

“I’ve heard that the third Prince is excellent in literary and martial arts. He should be suitable, right?” Dustin suggested.

“Yes, and many have said the same.”

Valon sighed, “My third son is smart and sharp-witted, making him seemingly the perfect candidate when considering various aspects.

“However, his lack of empathy concerns me. Someone like him would not lead the country well.”

Valon’s third son had both literary and martial talent, but unfortunately, he had a narrow-minded and suspicious nature. He would get jealous and suspect others easily.

Someone like him couldn’t withstand criticism nor tolerate the presence of talented individuals. In the long run, Dragonmarsh might face a decline if led by such a ruler. That was why he didn’t think his third son was an ideal choice for the throne, either.

“Your Majesty, there must be a more outstanding candidate among your many other children, right?” Dustin probed.

“My remaining sons either lack the ability or are too young to shoulder the responsibilities. That’s why I’m having a headache choosing between them.” Valon rubbed his temples.

Throughout history, the selection of the next King had always been a careful and deliberate process.

If he were still healthy, he wouldn’t have to rush. He could take his time to observe his sons and groom them into a suitable successor.

However, his time was running out. He needed to decide on a successor as soon as possible to stabilize the political landscape.

“If only Grace were a son, I wouldn’t be in such a dilemma.” Valon sighed again. While his sons fell short of expectations, he had a few exceptionally talented daughters.

Grace, especially, possessed both virtue and talent. She was outstanding in every aspect and was near perfect to be his successor. Unfortunately, being a woman, she wasn’t able to ascend to the throne. Fate was cruel sometimes.

“Your Majesty, if even you are troubled by this matter, then they are beyond my ability to solve.” Dustin shook his head.

Throughout the generations, the fight for the throne had often been accompanied by bloodshed and chaos. Dustin had his own troubles to think of and had no intention of getting involved in the conflict.

“While others may not be able to solve this problem, you surely can,” Valon said meaningfully.

“You are the future King of West Lucozia and a crucial pillar of the nation. Your opinion holds significant weight. I will choose whoever you recommend!”

“What?” Dustin’s expression stiffened, caught off guard.

While Valon initially sought his opinion, his words now implied that he was entrusting Dustin with making the final decision. He was now placed in an entirely different situation.