Chapter 29. Crossroads of the Heart
Bernard stayed silent for a while, unsure of how to respond to the intense question thrown at him by the highest priest.
"Hmm... If success means that everyone will be happy and no harm will come close to my family and loved ones, then I will pay any price to get success!" he finally said, taking a deep breath, his voice laced with courage and determination.
The highest priest looked deep into Bernard’s eyes.
"You don’t dictate or choose what success puts before you as the price to pay... You can only decide to pay it or not."
He turned away slowly, his robes swaying with the movement.
"You must return home and think about everything. Decide if you’re truly ready to make any sacrifice necessary to protect your kind and all that you hold dear."
"You must leave now and return only when your heart is made up," the lady in white, who had earlier brought Bernard to the sacred hall, spoke gently.
Bernard’s face tightened with worry. "But... how will I find this place again once my mind is made up?"
"Just follow your heart," she replied, her tone serene. "The ring in your hand will lead you to the path of righteousness."
As she touched Bernard’s shoulder, they both vanished from the presence of the highest priest, like mist blown away by the wind...
Meanwhile, back at the mansion, it was already late into the night. Beta Gilbert had been calling Bernard repeatedly, but his phone remained unreachable.