Chapter 1779 by Marina Vittori

Albert responded with a quick acknowledgment and left promptly. As the Executioner, he had refrained from significant bloodshed since the era of peace in West Lucozia.

However, Ambrose’s recent actions compelled him to step back into the role. Ambrose’s foolishness harmed himself and dragged the entire Linden family into a perilous situation.

“Reuben offers a sacrificial redemption through death, demoted to a commoner, and permits a dignified burial.

“Punish all the Vern family criminals according to the law. Spare the innocent ones,” Rufus spoke again.

“Understood!” Jaxon bowed and gestured, instructing someone to carry Reuben’s lifeless body away.

Soon, only Rufus and Eloise remained in the hall. Once everyone had left, Rufus finally couldn’t hold back, succumbing to intense coughing. His body swayed, teetering on the edge.

“Your Highness! Are you okay?” Eloise was startled and quickly rushed forward to support him.

“It’s nothing, just an old ailment.” Rufus shook his head, wiping away the blood from the corner of his mouth with a handkerchief.

“Your Highness, you’re coughing blood? I’ll call for a doctor right away!” Eloise’s face showed a hint of panic. She was ready to leave, but Rufus held on to her.

“No need to make a fuss. I know my own condition. Summoning a doctor would just mean taking a few more doses of medicine. It won’t make much of a difference.”

“Your Highness-“Eloise was about to offer more words of concern, but Rufus interrupted, “Enough worrying. I won’t die just yet. Sit down and chat with me for a while.”

Upon hearing this, Eloise could only nod helplessly.

“Eloise, these years have truly been challenging for you. You could have lived a comfortable life in Oakvale, yet you chose to be here in this wild place, laboring day in and day out.

“It’s all because of my shortcomings,” he said gently.

“Your Highness, what are you saying? You’re a hero, and I’m content just being by your side.” Eloise held Rufus’s hand.

“Hero? Look at me now. Just an old man past his prime.” Rufus chuckled self-deprecatingly.

“Your Highness, no matter how you change, you’re still the unparalleled man in my heart,” Eloise said earnestly.

Since her teenage years, she idolized Rufus. She even went so far as to persuade her brother to arrange her marriage to Rufus when he was not yet a prince.

At that time, Rufus already had Alba. However, Eloise was blinded by her admiration. She willingly embraced the infamy and pressure that came with her decision.

She never regretted marrying for love, especially to the man she considered a hero.

“Eloise, you’re a good wife, a good mother, and a good princess consort. I have a question to ask you now, and I hope you’ll answer truthfully.” Rufus changed the topic abruptly.

“Your Highness, please ask, and I’ll be honest with you.” Eloise nodded.

“My time is running out, and the position of Prince of West Lucozia needs a successor. What do you think about Austin?” His tone turned serious.

“Austin may seem carefree on the surface, but he possesses courage and strategy. He has great potential.

“If Your Highness is willing, I believe Austin can be a good Prince of West Lucozia,” Eloise replied.

She knew that this was the moment for Rufus to make a decision, and she had to advocate for her son.