In the modest monastery hall of Scenic Monastery, simplicity prevailed with no extravagant adornments. A statue of a saint, towering at ten to fifteen feet tall, was placed right in the center.
Despite its unassuming appearance, the hall was lit by the warm glow of candles. The area surrounding the saint statue was impeccably clean.
In front of the saint, a slender middle- aged monk sat with closed eyes. He was adorned in the distinctive attire of his order. Holding a strand of rosary beads, he quietly recited passages from the scripture in silent devotion.
The yellow-robed monk approached, whispering, “Abbot Lumen, Mr. Rhys has arrived.”
Donovan ceased his activities, stood up slowly, and greeted Dustin. “Greetings, Mr. Rhys. It’s been a while.”
“Indeed, ten years have passed.” Dustin nodded. “Should I call you Abbot Lumen or Prince of Carsonne, Your Highness?”
“I’ve left my former titles behind. Just Lumen is fine,” Donovan replied, lowering his head slightly.
“Alright,” Dustin said with a faint smile. “Lumen, I’ve come today with some questions that I hope you can help me unravel.”
“Are these questions related to events from ten years ago?” Donovan asked.
“That’s right,” Dustin confirmed. “A decade ago, you hadn’t embraced monkhood yet and wielded considerable influence in Aylka. You possessed information that could shed light on certain matters. I was hoping you could reveal the truth to me.”
“Mr. Rhys, why cling to the past?”
Donovan’s expression held a mix of emotions.
“The past happened, but seeking the truth isn’t wrong, is it?” Dustin replied.
“Some truths are better left unknown. Pursuing them might bring harm upon you,” Donovan cautioned.
“I am prepared for whatever consequences may arise,” Dustin asserted with unwavering determination.
“Mr. Rhys, let go of the past. Ten years ago was a different time.” Donovan sighed.
“Apologies, but I can’t let go of this matter,” Dustin said, shaking his head. “And it seems even you haven’t completely let go, hiding in this monastery, immersed in prayers and meditation.”
Donovan was once the Prince of Carsonne. But why would he suddenly become a monk? Ultimately, it was because of guilt.
Donovan sighed, his expression turning somber. “You are right. It’s my fault. If I hadn’t been so timid and had fulfilled my duties back then, things might not have turned out this way.”
Donovan and Rufus Rhys, Prince of Theswe, have been inseparable friends since their school days, sharing the battlefield and achieving feats together. They shared a deep bond, a camaraderie that surpassed the ordinary.
When Rufus was sent to the border, he sensed something unusual and entrusted him with the care of his wife and children.
Eventually, the Princess Consort was assassinated, the West Lucozian army suffered significant losses, and Logan vanished without a trace.
However, being the Prince of Carsonne, Donovan could do nothing to help. This had become a deep-seated regret and a lifelong guilt. Even now, he hadn’t forgiven himself.
“It is either a blessing in disguise or a curse we cannot escape. As you said, some matters need resolution,” Donovan said.
Finally, he made up his mind. “Mr. Rhys, ask whatever you want to know, and I will answer them truthfully.”
