Nestled within an expansive 800 acre Rhys Memorial Park, or the Ancient House Memorial Park, was a scenic panorama. Wide pathways wandered beneath the cool shade of abundant trees, and the amenities were extensive.
Across the changing of seasons, the park transformed with an array of flowers, plants, and trees.
Spring painted a lively spectacle with blooming cherry blossoms, while summer invited a refreshing ambiance with flourishing greenery. In autumn, a mesmerizing array of cascading maple leaves took center stage, and winter cloaked the landscape in a pristine blanket of white snow.
Rhys Memorial Park opened its gates to the public. It provided a final resting place not just for the Rhys family, but also as a tribute to the soldiers who were instrumental in the monarchy’s prosperity.
Annually, on Memorial Day and All Saint’s Day, the memorial park transformed into a lively center. It attracted visitors who came to honor departed loved ones or express gratitude to fallen heroes.
This practice carried profound meaning for the West Lucozian monarchy. It recognized that the current peace and prosperity were indebted to the sacrifices of these heroes.1
An hour later, Dustin and Grace reached the main entrance of Rhys Memorial Park. They took precautions to conceal their identities through simple disguises.
Grace, wearing a textile human-skin mask, adopted a more ordinary appearance to avoid attracting attention. Despite the attempt to blend in, she exuded an extraordinary charm. It captured the attention of many as they strolled through the memorial park.
Guided by memory, Dustin made his way toward the inner depths of the park. If he remembered correctly, his mother’s grave should be situated in the most secluded section. After approximately 15 minutes of walking, Dustin finally found the tomb of the Princess Consort of West Lucozia.
Her tomb stood out with its grandeur compared to the others. A stone wall enclosed the tomb, with an arched stone gate at its center. In front of the gate stood a stone statue of the Princess Consort of West Lucozia. It was intricately carved and adorned with fresh flowers-a clear sign of regular visitation and worship.
Alba held immense prestige in the West Lucozian monarchy, second only to Rufus. During the period when Rufus dedicated himself to military endeavors, defending against external threats and suppressing bandits, she efficiently managed all internal affairs of the West Lucozian monarchy.
Whether it was economic development, improvement of living conditions, or maintenance of social order, Alba organized everything meticulously. In challenging times, she worked alongside the common people, sharing labor and meals. It was devoid of the airs of royalty.
Her efforts laid a solid foundation for the legendary life of Rufus, the invincible myth of the Black Dragon Army, and the current prosperity of the West Lucozian monarchy. Alba and Rufus collaborated to shape this world.
Even after a decade, people continued to visit her tomb every day, expressing gratitude. Dustin felt his eyes moisten as he stood before the statue. The familiar visage and warm smile of his mother seemed as though it was frozen in time.
Dustin didn’t typically dwell on such thoughts, but in the current moment, a sense of warmth and nostalgia rushed over him as he observed the surroundings.
“Mom, I’m sorry. Your son has been absent for far too long.”
Dustin approached the stone statue, sinking to his knees with a resounding thud. His eyes were slightly reddened, and his lips trembled.
He went on, “It’s hard to believe that ten years have passed in the blink of an eye. I’ve been a bad son. I regret not visiting you for such a long time.”
He added, “I made a vow, swearing to find the culprit and avenge you. Until then, I couldn’t face you. It’s been ten years, and now the mastermind is defeated. The accomplices from that time are either dead or incapacitated,
with only a few remnants left.”
Dustin promised, “I promise you, Mom, I will eliminate those who harmed you. I’ll make those beasts pay the price in blood!”
