The phrase "public execution" struck Ambrose like a lightning bolt, leaving him frozen in his tracks. At that moment, the severity of the situation fully sank in.

For ordinary offenses, it was either a pay cut or the worst would be a demotion. But, it had escalated to the point of facing execution.

What on earth was happening? How could a governor, in his right mind, order a beheading?

"Your Highness! This is a grave injustice!" Realizing he was about to be apprehended, Ambrose pleaded desperately and bowed repeatedly.

"Even if I failed in my duty as a governor, does that warrant losing my life?"

"Failing in your duty? Hmph! You're trivializing it," Rufus said with a stern expression.

"Your Highness! What crime have I committed that deserves such drastic punishment?" Ambrose questioned with a mournful face.

"Over the years, what unsavory deeds have you done? Haven't you kept count?" Rufus interrogated.

"I truly don't know. Please, Your Highness, enlighten me." Ambrose mainta