Rufus smiled. “No need to be so reserved. Today is a private gathering, and everyone here is part of the family. Feel free to express your thoughts openly. There’s no need to hold back.”
“Since Prince Rufus has spoken, I won’t decline,” Adam said.
He rose slowly, offering a courteous nod to those around him before speaking. “These are my personal views. If they inadvertently cause offense, I hope everyone here won’t take it to heart.”
“God of Military, you’re too humble. You’re an important contributor to the nation’s strength, and your insights undoubtedly carry extraordinary weight.”
“Absolutely, God of Military. Why don’t you enlighten us on your preferred candidate?” The crowd chimed in with curiosity.
Adam’s significance required no explanation. As Dragonmarsh’s God of Military and the future heir of the royal Spanner family, his influence was immense.
Surveying the room, he stood among the most distinguished attendees.
“Very well, I shall express my thoughts, “Adam began, clearing his throat before speaking earnestly.
“Taking into consideration Logan’s comprehensive abilities and virtuous principles, I find him to be better suited for the role of the Prince of West Lucozia.
“Certainly, Logan is not without his flaws. Firstly, his prolonged absence from West Lucozia has left him unfamiliar with the current state of affairs.
“Secondly, he lacks a strong foundation here, making it challenging to garner widespread support.
“Yet, let us not overlook the fact that Prince Rufus himself started from humble beginnings. No one believed in him initially, but look what happened.
“Prince Rufus, through his exceptional personal abilities, expanded the territory of West Lucozia, earning renown and achieving the esteemed status he holds today.
“Disregarding other factors, Logan’s personal capabilities are by no means inferior to those of Prince Rufus in his early days. It would be difficult to find anyone comparable not only in West Lucozia but throughout Dragonmarsh.
“I firmly believe that given time, Logan has the potential to be a remarkable Prince for West Lucozia and lead you all to greater heights.
“This is my stance. If anyone has a different opinion, please feel free to voice it. I have shared my thoughts.”
With that, Adam returned to his seat with a gracious smile and resumed his meal. Nevertheless, Adam’s words stirred a subtle ripple among the gathering and altered the perspectives of some.
Many of them had been loyal followers of Rufus for a considerable time and were intimately acquainted with his journey. The undeniable truth was that Logan bore the closest resemblance to Rufus in many aspects.
Logan exhibited exceptional prowess in both intellect and martial skills. He had also evolved from his impulsive nature to a more mature demeanor through the trials of external challenges over the years.
Putting aside various other considerations, it was apparent that Logan appeared more fitting for the role of the Prince compared to Austin.
However, the matter of the throne held substantial weight, impacting the interests of many. Therefore, any decision had to be approached with careful consideration.
“Julius, who do you think is more suitable, Logan or Austin?” After asking Adam, Rufus shifted his attention to Julius beside him.
“Rufus, I am but a criminal. I’m not qualified to comment.” Julius said, shaking his head repeatedly.
Even though he had redeemed himself through his contributions, many remained dissatisfied with his previous behavior. Even as he sat down for a meal, the piercing gazes of many were fixed upon him, seemingly eager to tear him apart.
It would be wise not to place himself in the limelight at this time.
“We’re all family here, just having a casual chat. There’s no need to feel burdened,” Rufus said with a smile.
After a moment of hesitation, Julius finally said, “Spiritually, my support lies with Austin. However, if I really had to choose, I would probably lean toward Logan.”
