“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 force our hand. Our monastery is small and can’t accommodate such an important figure. Please leave,” the round-faced monk sternly replied.
“What goes around comes around. Abbot Lumen planted seeds ten years ago, and now it’s time to reap what was sown. Endlessly avoiding the world is just denial,” Dustin declared.
“I don’t understand what you’re saying, “the round-faced monk retorted. “As I said before, our abbot is in seclusion and won’t see outsiders. Please leave!”
“I’ve spoken kindly enough. If you insist on stopping me, then I have no other choice but force my way in.” Dustin’s expression turned cold.
Regardless, he was determined to see Donovan Lindsor today.
“This is a sacred place. You can’t behave recklessly here!” the round- faced monk warned.
“If you don’t leave, be prepared to face our resistance!” The other monk grew impatient.
“You can try.” Dustin proceeded to the monastery hall impassively and disregarded their warnings.
“How impudent!”
The two monks, angered, prepared to attack, but a stern voice suddenly echoed within the hall.
“Stop!”
At the command, the two monks immediately ceased their actions.
“Both of you, don’t be disrespectful.” After scolding them, a monk in yellow robes walked out of the hall.
The monk approached Dustin and said, “Lord, have mercy. Mr. Rhys, your presence at Scenic Monastery is our honor. The abbot is aware of your visit. Please, come inside.”
With that, he stepped aside, allowing Dustin to enter.
“But!” The round-faced monk’s expression tightened. Then, he said, ” This Mr. Rhys has an unknown background. We must stay vigilant.”
“This is the abbot’s decision. You have no right to question it. Step back!” The monk in yellow robes commanded.
“Yes!” Reluctantly, the round-faced monk stepped back, but his watchful eyes remained fixed on Dustin.
“Mr. Rhys, please.”
With a slight nod, the monk in yellow robes led Dustin into the monastery hall.
