An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 1796

“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.