“Your Highness suggests we root out the traitor?” Jaxon inquired.
“No, exposing the traitor and tracking the killer is Albert’s task. Your mission is even more critical,” Eloise said with seriousness.
She went on, “These years, the situation in West Lucozia has been unstable. With His Highness gone, the castle is vulnerable.
“I’ve gathered you, the Draken Guardians, to protect the castle. Whoever dares to plot against it, eliminate them without mercy!”
“I understand!” Jaxon replied. In times of crisis, extraordinary measures were necessary. With the prince gone, the castle faced imminent challenges.
“General Steele, you were a trusted aide to His Highness and are a pillar of our castle. It’s up to you now,” Eloise said solemnly.
“I am willing to sacrifice everything to safeguard the castle,” Jaxon declared, fully aware of his responsibility.
The prince’s assassination placed the blame squarely on him as the captain of the royal guards. Were it not for the castle’s current staffing requirements, he would undoubtedly have sought redemption through his own sacrifice.
“General Steele, I’ve sealed the news. His Highness’s death is known to only a few. Be vigilant. Most people offering condolences are likely to have ill intentions.
“Apprehend anyone acting suspiciously,” Eloise commanded once more.
“I understand.” Jaxon nodded. The news of the prince’s demise would inevitably spread, and those with malicious motives would soon approach.
In the western city stood an antiquely adorned old mansion. Dustin had just woken up to find a dozen young girls waiting outside.
Each was exceptionally beautiful, resembling contestants in a beauty pageant.
“Didn’t I tell you to go home? Why are you all still here?” Dustin was perplexed. These girls, rescued from the Hero Alliance the previous night, had been sent home with a generous sum. Surprisingly, half of them chose to stay.
“We have no homes to return to, sir. Please, shelter us,” a bold girl in yellow pleaded.
“Shelter?” Dustin was puzzled.
Grace approached suddenly and said, ” Dustin, my brother, these are all unfortunate souls. Why not take them in?”
Their current cover story portrayed them as brothers and sisters. In public, they must still have played along with this charade.
“What are you up to?” He pulled her aside, questioning her in a hushed tone.
“Dustin, their parents were murdered, and they have no relatives left. They are truly homeless. Most of them are underage.
“After going through such dark experiences, they can only trust you now. If you don’t take them in, they might lose the will to live,” Grace persuaded.
“I’m dealing with enough trouble already. I don’t have the energy for this. Are you trying to complicate things for me?” Dustin furrowed his brows.
Rescuing and providing financial help was already a significant effort for him with his current situation.
