"Who are you? Why are you here?"In the solemn hall of Scenic Monastery, tension filled the air as the two monks swiftly positioned themselves to block Dustin's path. Their eyes, sharp and vigilant, betrayed an unusual wariness. These monks, having secluded themselves for years, rarely encountered outsiders. The sudden appearance of a stranger, especially one seeking the prince, heightened their concern."I'm Logan Rhys, here to pay my respects to the Prince of Carsonne. I hope you can let me through," Dustin calmly stated."Logan Rhys?" The monks exchanged astonished glances, unprepared for the reappearance of the man who had been missing for a decade."Mr. Rhys, this is a monastery. There's no Prince of Carsonne here. You've come to the wrong place. Kindly leave," the round-faced monk said with a serious tone."Gentlemen, I've traveled a long way with genuine intentions. I'd appreciate it if you could announce my arrival inside. Thank you," Dustin said respectfully."Don't fo
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," Dusti
"Alright!" Dustin cut to the chase, his gaze unwavering. "Lumen, let's get straight to it. Who was the puppet master pulling the strings behind the plot to wipe us out all those years ago?""As expected." Donovan nodded, already anticipating the question. Instead of a direct response, he posed a question of his own, "Mr. Rhys, have you ever come across the Dragon Guard?""The Dragon Guard?" Dustin narrowed his eyes. "Rufus mentioned it briefly, but the details escape me.""In that case, allow me to shed some light," Donovan said, his demeanor serious. "The Dragon Guard, established in the early days of our nation, is a formidable institution that surpasses imperial authority. Its members are elite warriors, each a force to be reckoned with." He added, "Take their Chief Guildmaster, Alaric Drakon, for instance. His strength is immeasurable. In the entire realm, only the reclusive sage of Sacred Wyrm Summit could rival him."Most importantly, the current king owes his position
Dustin had never expected anyone to risk their lives for him. Donovan's decision to stay silent to save himself wasn't inherently wrong."Your father saved me countless times and put so much trust in me, but I did nothing. It's genuinely embarrassing," Donovan lamented. If Dustin had scolded or hit him, it might have been easier for Donovan to bear. However, Dustin showed no intention of blaming him, intensifying his guilt."Abbot Lumen, I have a question. We had no issues with the Dragon Guard, so why were they trying to eliminate us?" Dustin asked again. "The reason is simple. You pose a threat to the established order," Donovan said helplessly. "Ten years ago, your family's West Lucozian monarchy dominated the scene, overshadowing imperial authority. For the organization, your existence threatened their status, something they couldn't tolerate.""Such a slight threat and the organization chose to annihilate us?" Dustin furrowed his brow, a steely glint in his eyes. "Logan
"Traitor?" Dustin raised an eyebrow at the unexpected revelation. Although a similar notion had crossed his path before, the urgency in Donovan's voice gave the matter newfound significance."Abbot Lumen …" Dustin pressed, "Who's this supposed traitor?""The culprit is none other than General Reston Rever, a key figure under your father's command," Donovan disclosed."Uncle Reston? That can't be right! Didn't he sacrifice himself?" Dustin's face displayed disbelief.Reston Rever, a loyal general in his father's service, stood as a brother-in-arms, sharing the trials of life and death. A decade ago, Reston, who led the guard during their arrival in the capital, successfully foiled numerous assassination attempts. His bravery became even more evident during the Aylka Rebellion when he courageously guided Dustin and Alba out of the city, eventually sacrificing himself in a heroic act.How could someone so gallant and virtuous turn out to be a traitor?"When I first got wind of t
The round-faced monk was interrupted by Donovan's raised hand. "No need for more words. Just go," Donovan said."Yes." The round-faced monk shot Dustin a glare and left in a hurry."Edvan, take Mr. Rhys to the back of the mountain. Make sure to protect his safety," Donovan added."Abbot, what about you?" The monk in the yellow robe furrowed his brow in concern. Before becoming a monk, he served as the commander of the Prince of Carsonne's guards. He had never left the prince's side. Now, he was reluctant to leave the abbot and escort a stranger down the mountain."With Fedrick and Clarick here, I won't be in danger. You two, go quickly. Don't delay," Donovan instructed."Yes," Edvan said nothing more, immediately leading Dustin out the door. Before leaving, Dustin glanced back at Donovan, who had once again entered a state of meditation, continuing his recitation."Mr. Rhys, this way, please," Edvan led Dustin into the monastery's backyard, opened a hidden door, and went in f
A resounding crash echoed as the stone door descended, deepening Dustin's furrowed brows. It wasn't fear that gripped him but the sheer displeasure at Edvan's actions. Entrusted by the Prince of Carsonne to ensure Dustin's safe descent, Edvan had instead led Dustin into a well-prepared ambush. It was a betrayal far more infuriating than mere bystander apathy."Logan, no need to look around. This place is no man's land—no savior will come for you. Today marks the end for you!" A masked man with a wolf's head confidently stepped forward, his voice projecting loudly."Anders," Dustin replied coldly, "Hiding behind a mask, are you too ashamed to show your face?"At these words, the man behind the wolf-head mask hesitated for a moment, then erupted into a boisterous laugh. Rather than denying it, he casually removed the mask, unveiling his true identity. It was Anders. "Surprisingly, you have a keen eye, spotting my disguise," Anders expressed his surprise. He hadn't anticipated Dust
Grandmaster martial artists skillfully hid within the assembly, discreetly blending in with Anders and his formidable Fang Legion. The ambush was nothing short of imposing."Logan, think this is the end? Bit too optimistic." Anders sneered and shook his head. "Truth is, we've prepared for the worst. What you see here is just the tip of the iceberg. More skilled warriors are on their way. Even if you have supernatural powers, today is your judgment day!"The assembled group appeared to be sufficient for Dustin. However, a lingering unease persisted—the potential for enemy reinforcements. Maintaining vigilance was, as it had always been, a wise decision."Anders, is Moseys Mansion also a puppet for the Dragon Guard?" Dustin questioned."It's an honor to serve the Dragon Guard. Unfortunately, it's your misfortune," Anders replied candidly. "You had the option to play dead and live a quiet life. But by delving into the truth of the past, your existence is now a threat and must be elimi