The meditation chamber at Echowave Hall was unlike the strict, oppressive atmosphere of the castle. It was usually quiet and serene. But now, the master bedroom reeked of medicinal herbs and a heavy, somber atmosphere.

Rufus, who once commanded fear across the land, now lay frail and wasted on the bed. Gray strands of hair clung to his forehead. His face was a dull, sickly gray, and his eyes were sunken deep. Each shallow breath made it feel like the spark of his life could vanish at any moment.

Eloise sat at the bedside, carefully wiping his withered hands with a warm towel. Her eyes were puffy and red, with streaks of tears still fresh on her cheeks.

Several gray-haired royal physicians stood nearby, shaking their heads and sighing in helpless resignation. Rufus' condition had worsened beyond saving, and no medicine could pull him back from the brink.

"Father! Mother!"

Austin barged into the room without bothering with the dust on his clothes or any formalities.

"Austin? What